🐾Mascot: "Pete"

Let's talk about Pete, but not just any Pete – we're focusing on Prospector Pete, the former mascot of California State University, Long Beach. This mascot has a rich history, but it's also a bit complex. Prospector Pete was created to honor the California Gold Rush of 1849, symbolizing the idea of "striking gold" in education. However, over time, it became clear that this era was also marked by significant hardship and violence against Native American communities. As the university's student body became more diverse, the mascot's meaning shifted, and it was eventually decided to retire Prospector Pete to promote a more inclusive environment 🏆. This change shows how important it is to listen to different perspectives and ensure that our symbols reflect our values. So, even though Prospector Pete is no longer the official mascot, its story teaches us a lot about history, diversity, and the power of community ✨.