The town of Massapequa on Long Island is making headlines after hundreds of people gathered for a “Save the Chiefs” rally to protest a state ban on Native American-themed school mascots.
This ban, which was introduced in 2022 and took effect in 2023, has affected over 60 school districts across New York, including Massapequa High School, which has used the “Chiefs” name and logo for decades.
The rally, held on a sunny Saturday at John J. Burns Park, was filled with residents, students, alumni, and even local politicians who are all united in one message — they want to keep the “Chiefs” identity alive.
People carried signs, wore school jerseys, and chanted slogans in support of keeping the mascot. Many see this as a fight for their community’s tradition and pride, not as something offensive.
According to the state’s Education Department, the rule is meant to promote respect for all cultures and stop the misuse of Native American imagery, which they say can be harmful and stereotypical.
But the Massapequa community argues that their use of “Chiefs” is not disrespectful. Instead, they claim it honors the bravery, leadership, and strength traditionally associated with Native American chiefs.
Parents, students, and community leaders who spoke at the rally expressed their frustration with the state’s decision, calling it unfair and unnecessary.
Some said they felt the state was overstepping and not considering how deeply connected the mascot is to the town’s identity. Several speakers stressed that the “Chiefs” name is a source of unity and pride for generations of students who’ve passed through Massapequa High School.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman was one of the officials who showed support at the event. He said the state should allow local school districts to make their own decisions about mascots.
According to Blakeman, forcing communities to change long-standing traditions is not the right approach, especially when those communities see the mascot as a respectful symbol.
The school district had earlier said it would work with the state to find a compromise. But now, with growing public pressure, the district seems to be reconsidering its position. A final decision has not yet been announced, but residents are hopeful that the rally will make an impact and show state officials how important the mascot is to the town.
While supporters of the ban believe it’s a necessary step toward cultural sensitivity and change, many in Massapequa feel they are being punished for a tradition that was never meant to offend.
The protest has sparked a larger debate across the state, as other school districts facing similar bans are also starting to push back.
This issue highlights the ongoing tension between honoring community traditions and moving forward with more inclusive policies. Whether Massapequa will be able to keep its “Chiefs” mascot remains to be seen, but one thing is clear — the town is not giving up without a fight.