Since Lil’ Red’s inception in 1993, he has arguably become the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s token mascot representative. Herbie Husker will always be heralded as a great mascot but there is no denying that Lil’s innocence, character, and infectious joy has drawn Husker Nation closer to him and to each other. However, Red’s influence may loom too large.

Five-foot-eleven Nebraska senior Makenna Foreman claims Lil’ Red’s popularity may be having a negative effect on students’ self-esteem.

“Sure, he’s like six-feet tall in person, but that doesn’t change the fact that he has glorified the idea of being ‘lil’,'” Foreman said. “When I came to UNL as a freshman, it was really hard not seeing anyone with my body type representing our school and owning up to it.”

After years of petitioning the school board, Chancellor Ronnie Green has finally addressed Foreman’s concerns.

“We intend to add an additional four mascots to UNL’s lineup in order to increase body positivity and overall inclusivity,” Green said.

Four new mascots were revealed in a press conference earlier this week, and the new body-posi line will include Skinny Red, Pear-Shaped Red, African-American Red and Large Red.

According to an anonymous board member, Large Red ultimately won over the proposed Big Red, who would’ve already had his own chant, perpetuating further inequality.

“I couldn’t be happier with the news,” Foreman said. “I adore Lil’ Red, but it’ll be so great seeing someone like me representing Husker Nation.”

The new mascots will be officially introduced next month.