New York School Districts Comply With State DEI Policy Forcing Mascot Changes

The varsity sports teams at Westhill High School in Syracuse, New York, have a long history of success, with regional and state championship banners proudly displayed. However, a new mandate from the New York State Department of Education will require the teams to undergo a rebranding process focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

The mandate prohibits the use of “indigenous mascots, names, or logos” in school districts, with the threat of reduced state aid and termination of school administrators for non-compliance. Despite Westhill’s mascot being a Roman soldier and the term “warrior” not being specific to any particular group, the district has committed to making the necessary changes.

Westhill Superintendent Steve Dunham explained in a memo to the district community that the name “Warriors” was meant to symbolize pride, strength, and unity without intending to disrespect any culture or group. The district had already replaced the previous Indian headdress logo with a Roman soldier 22 years ago.

After seeking an exemption from the requirement and consulting with the nearby Onondaga Indian Nation, it was determined that the name “Warriors” was not acceptable. This led to the decision to comply with the state mandate, as failure to do so could result in severe consequences for the district.

In the coming months, the Westhill community will decide on new names and logos, with options such as Blue Jays, Blue Hawks, Hawks, Wolf Pack, or Wolves being considered. The logo may also be maintained with the names Defenders or Guardians.

While the mandate applies to school mascots, names, and logos, there has been no pressure to rename municipalities or bodies of water with indigenous names in the region. The Department of Education has reported widespread compliance with the regulation, with all affected schools expected to make changes by the end of the 2024–2025 academic year.

New York State has become the 21st state to restrict Native-themed imagery in public schools, with at least 55 districts asked to rebrand themselves. Despite initial resistance from some districts, such as Schoharie and Mahopac, most have since complied with the mandate and adopted new mascots and names.