Native American Mascot Ban Referred to Justice Department

The U.S. Department of Education referred its investigation into the New York Department of Education (NYDE) and the New York State Board of Regents to the U.S. Department of Justice for enforcement.

The referral follows their rejection of a proposed Resolution Agreement to comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by rescinding a ban on Native American mascots and logos.

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The policy, deemed discriminatory, targeted Massapequa School District’s “Chiefs” mascot while permitting mascots like “Dutchmen” and “Huguenots.”

U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon criticized the NYDE and Board for violating federal antidiscrimination law and disrespecting Native American heritage.

The agreement required the ban’s reversal and an apology to Indigenous tribes.

The investigation, launched April 25, concluded May 30 after McMahon’s visit to Massapequa High School, confirming Title VI violations. The Justice Department will now address the issue.