Vancouver Blogger Sriseth

When VANOC first introduced 2010 Olympic Mascots back in Nov 26th 2007, they were an instant sensation. Miga, Quatchi and Sumi became so popular among both kids and adults alike, those 3 amigos have become household names. And then there is Mukmuk; not an official mascot, just a sidekick. Vancouver games is the first to have a mascot sidekick. Introducing Mukmuk, VANOC said: "Mukmuk is a rare marmot unique to the mountains of Vancouver Island. While he’s not officially a mascot, Mukmuk is considered an honourary member of the team and enjoys surprising his friends by popping up on occasion to share in the spirit and fun of the Games. Mukmuk’s name comes from the Squamish word for food (‘muckamuck’) because he loves to eat – when he’s not playing with his mascot friends." Mukmuk is the only mascot that depicts a real animal from BC, the marmot found in high mountains of Vancouver Island and mainland BC.

While many embraced much publicized 3 official mascots- Miga, Quatchi & Sumi, a section of the fans adored the sidekick. Mukmuk being a Vancouver Islander and depicts an endangered animal attracted many. Those die hard fans wasn't happy that Mukmuk is just a sidekick and doesn't show up along with other three most of the time. Mukmuk does not introduce himself in the official 'Meet the Mascots' video.  There are also complaints the Mukmuk souvenirs are not readily available. Although VANOC later issued official 'Meet Mukmuk' video and released all kinds of souvenirs to match other mascots, Mukmuk remained as just a sidekick. Once the games started, Free Mukmuk movement got momentum and an activist group called themselves Mukmuk Mascoteers organized a rally near Vancouver Arts Gallery on Feb 23rd. About 20 people joined the rally carrying slogans of “marmots have feelings too” and “free Mukmuk now” and managed to attract crowds. (see YouTube video)

The organizer said: "We are just a group of people having a great time at the Olympics. We just wanted to get out there, add a bit more fun and make sure this doesn’t happen to sidekicks in the future.”