Massapequa Chiefs Logo Fight Sparks Federal Involvement

New York State’s ban on Native American-themed logos and mascots has been escalated to federal authorities after the Trump administration voiced strong support for the Massapequa Chiefs on Long Island.

In a pointed letter, U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon criticized the state’s policy as “absurd,” and referred the issue to the Department of Justice following New York’s refusal to dismantle the ban voluntarily. McMahon stated, “Both the New York Department of Education and the Board of Regents violated federal anti-discrimination laws.”

McMahon condemned the ban enacted in 2023, arguing it unfairly targets Native American imagery while ignoring other cultures with similar mascots, such as “Huguenots” or “Scotsmen.” “Why aren’t these considered racist?” she challenged during a visit to Long Island.

She filed a civil rights complaint under Title VI, alleging the ban was discriminatory and an unlawful attempt to erase Native American symbols. Despite multiple offers for resolution, New York’s Board of Regents declined to cooperate, McMahon said.

Opposition leaders, including Massapequa School Board President Kerry Wachter, have defended the mascot, with Wachter notably wearing a shirt emblazoned with “LONG LIVE THE MASSAPEQUA CHIEFS” during recent protests.

In response, the state’s Assistant Commissioner Dave Frank suggested expanding the ban to other offensive-sounding mascots, although critics say this adds unwarranted financial burdens on schools. Massapequa residents and supporters remain defiant, rallying behind their mascot amid ongoing legal battles.

Supporters, including President Trump, have publicly opposed the ban, asserting that the mascot celebrates Native American heritage rather than perpetuating stereotypes. The district’s supporters argue that rebranding would cost millions—per estimates like $23 million for Connetquot—and continues to fight the policy at every level.