New York State is accused of violating Title VI by banning Indigenous-themed mascots while allowing others tied to European heritage
The U.S. Department of Education has referred the New York Department of Education (NYDE) and the State Board of Regents (the Board) to the Department of Justice (DOJ) after both agencies refused to comply with a proposed resolution to address alleged violations of federal civil rights law. The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) found that the state’s prohibition on Native American-themed mascots and logos, such as the Massapequa School District’s “Chiefs,” while permitting others tied to European backgrounds, constitutes unlawful discrimination under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.
“Both the New York Department of Education and the Board of Regents violated federal antidiscrimination law and disrespected the people of Massapequa by implementing an absurd policy: prohibiting the use of Native American mascots while allowing mascots derived from European national origin…,” said Secretary of Education Linda McMahon.
The civil rights office had issued a proposed agreement requiring New York education authorities to rescind the mascot ban and issue a formal apology to Indigenous communities. After two refusals by the state—first following the initial offer, then again after an impasse letter—the matter was formally referred to the Justice Department for enforcement. Officials concluded that such enforcement of cultural erasure while allowing other ethnic references violates protections against race- and national origin-based discrimination in schools.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Attorney General Pam Bondi to receive God’s guidance as she heads the Justice Department.
- For Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon as she oversees the DOJ’s Office of Civil Rights.
- For Secretary McMahon as she seeks to ensure the enforcement of Title VI.
Sources: Department of Education
