Rutgers students look to diversify Scarlet Knight mascot

NEW BRUNSWICK (WABC) -- Rutgers University's student government approved a resolution to create additional mascots after many argued the current Scarlet Knight is white and too male to represent the diverse student body.

The resolution says the current mascot should be joined with black, Hispanic, female or third-gender mascots.

The Rutgers Scarlet Knight mascot just got his looks updated, as he represents the school in its new Big 10 spot.

But one student organization says the whole mascot idea needs a new look and is suggesting the school invest in a couple of buddies for the golden haired, blue eyed hero. Additional knights that are more ethnic.

It's an idea written up now as a bill from the Rutgers University Student Assembly. It's goal, to have mascots, plural, that represent the cultural diversity of the school. Maybe even a lady knight.

Rutgers prides itself on its diversity and one of its main slogans is "Jersey roots, global reach."

The school's athletic director says about the multi-mascot idea, "We appreciate the intent of (the student assembly's) RUSA's recommendation and will gladly engage in discussions with them on this matter." Some say it shouldn't even be on the table.

"I feel like we're the only college that' has been applying that to us.. to have multiple mascots. I think it would be weird," said Jailyn Cepeda, a sophomore.

Others say it may cost too much money.