The ongoing debate over the Massapequa Chiefs logo has taken a significant turn. New York State’s ban on Native American logos has been referred to federal prosecutors after the Trump administration stepped in to support the Massapequa Chiefs.
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon sent a letter to the Department of Justice, calling the situation “absurd.” This comes after New York State refused to lift its ban, which was enacted in 2023. McMahon argued that the state’s policy is discriminatory, as it only targets names and logos associated with Native American culture while ignoring others.
During a visit to Massapequa High School in May, McMahon expressed her discontent with the ban, questioning why other ethnic references, like the Huguenots and Highlanders, are not deemed offensive. She emphasized that the ban violates federal antidiscrimination laws and disrespects the local community.
McMahon has framed the issue as a civil rights violation, stating that it unlawfully attempts to erase symbols that celebrate Native American history. The Department of Education had previously offered New York State a chance to resolve the matter voluntarily, but both the state Board of Regents and the education department declined the offer.
The Massapequa community has rallied around their Chiefs logo, with local leaders expressing strong support for keeping the name. School Board President Kerry Wachter noted that the district faces a hefty cost of around $1 million to change the mascot.
In response to the federal intervention, Wachter criticized the state for its handling of the situation, suggesting that the ban should not have been implemented in the first place. He also mentioned that other districts affected by the ban are now facing significant financial burdens to replace their mascots.
The Massapequa Chiefs have garnered support from various groups, including the Native American Guardians Association, and local leaders are optimistic about the federal backing. As the situation develops, the community remains determined to preserve their identity and fight against what they see as an unjust ban.
