CLEVELAND -- It's a tradition that spans decades in one local community, but the Oberlin Indians are changing their controversial name and logo.

NewsChannel5 reported that after 76 years, Oberlin's mascot is being replaced and the executive director of the American Indian Education Center is ecstatic.

"I'm not a mascot. My children are not mascots," said Robert Roche. "It's offensive and it's racist"

The principal asked students for empathy as some struggle to accept the change.

"I don't like it at all. I started out being an Indian. I wanted to finish up as an Indian," said Josh Manning, a school athlete.

The school board has been talking about changing the mascot for a while.

Board Chairman Marci Alegant said the change will not cost a penny.

"We will replace uniforms as they come up to be replaced," Alegant said. "Painting will be done with volunteers and donated materials."

Alegant hoped Oberlin's action will encourage others to say it is time to change.

WEWS reported there are still 225 schools in Ohio with an Indian as a mascot.

Roche hopes that number will one day drop to zero.