New York May Expand Mascot Ban After Federal Probe

The U.S. Department of Education determined that New York State's ban on Native American school mascots violates Title VI of the Civil Rights Act because it singles out Indigenous imagery while allowing other ethnic mascots. Education Secretary Linda McMahon visited Massapequa High School, which has resisted dropping its 'Chiefs' mascot, and warned that New York must reverse or revise its policy or face Justice Department action. New York's policy, enacted in 2023, required districts to retire Indigenous-themed mascots by 2025 unless they received tribal approval. In response to federal pressure, New York's Education Department has offered to broaden the ban to include all mascots connected to racial or ethnic groups. Opinions remain divided, with some arguing mascots honor heritage and others, including many Indigenous leaders, asserting they perpetuate harmful stereotypes. Negotiations are ongoing between state and federal officials to reach a resolution.