Blackpool ‘Red Indian’ display faces racism claims

A LIGHTS display featuring “Red Indians” on a seaside resort’s famous illuminations could be taken down after complaints that it is racist.

The 60-year-old tableau, which is part of the Blackpool Illuminations, depicts six axe-wielding Native Americans wearing war bonnet headdresses and dancing around a totem pole.

A complaint was lodged by a member of the Chickasaw Nation who now lives in England. “Caricatures such as these reinforce racial stereotypes of Native Americans as being primitive people who have no place in modern society,” he said. “It paints Blackpool as a community that supports racism and discrimination.”

Blackpool council defended the display, but hinted that it may be removed in future. A spokesman said council officers had held discussions with two people of Native American origin who had raised concerns. “We assured them [the tableau was] designed and created many years ago and intended to be a celebration of different cultures.

“We will take on board the comments received and review which features are appropriate for inclusion in next year’s display. We have also agreed to explore options for a new tableau that celebrates native American culture with input from the network based in the UK.”