Today, the U.S. Department of Education initiated an investigation into Connetquot Central School District on Long Island, New York. The investigation focuses on the district's efforts to remove its Native American mascot and imagery, known as the Thunderbirds. This action follows a complaint filed by the Native American Guardians Association with the Department’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR). The OCR will assess whether these actions violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Last month, OCR determined that a policy by the New York Department of Education and Board of Regents banning Native American mascots violates Title VI. Despite this finding, Connetquot Central School District is moving forward with removing its Native American mascot to comply with state regulations.
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon commented on her recent visit to New York: “During my recent visit to New York, many individuals in the Native American community expressed deep pride in their heritage and local mascots. Images like the Thunderbirds and Chiefs are seen as symbols of strength, honor, and identity – not of disrespect.” She further stated that it is neither legal nor right for New York to prohibit Native American mascots while allowing other cultural imagery in schools.
In April, OCR began investigating whether Part 123 of New York State's Regulations—which bans Indigenous names, logos, or mascots—violates federal civil rights law. In May, Secretary McMahon announced that OCR found this policy in violation and proposed a resolution agreement to state authorities. Additionally, in June, the U.S. Department of Education referred another mascot case from Massapequa to the U.S. Department of Justice for enforcement.
