Overview
- The U.S. Department of Education has opened a Title VI civil rights investigation into New York’s ban on Native American mascots in public schools.
- The probe follows a complaint from the Native American Guardians Association, which argues the policy discriminates against Native heritage and violates federal law.
- President Trump publicly supported the Massapequa School District’s fight to retain its 'Chiefs' mascot, calling the state’s mandate an 'affront to our great Indian population.'
- New York officials defend the ban, citing evidence that Native-themed mascots perpetuate harmful stereotypes and noting that Massapequa did not consult Indigenous leaders during the rulemaking process.
- The investigation could lead to federal funding cuts for New York if violations are found, while districts face a June 30 deadline to comply with the state’s regulations.