A Native American advocacy group is opposing New York’s recent ban on indigenous imagery in schools, which includes the removal of mascots like the ‘Thunderbirds’. The group, the Native American Guardians Association (NAGA), argues that the decision represents a form of cultural censorship and systemic racism, potentially undermining Native American heritage and identity.
Frank Black Cloud, vice president of NAGA, criticized the state’s actions, stating that the move is a slap in the face to the Native American community. He emphasized that only a minority of Native Americans oppose such mascots, and that the fight to protect indigenous symbols has been ongoing for decades.
At the heart of the controversy is Connetquot High School in Bohemia, Long Island. The school’s ‘Thunderbirds’ mascot, which is closely tied to some Native American cultures, has become a focal point of the debate. In a July 2024 press release, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights launched an investigation into the Connetquot Central School District, alleging that the state’s actions may violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon supported the local Native American community, stating that images like ‘Thunderbirds’ are symbols of strength, honor, and identity, not of disrespect. Meanwhile, the New York State Department of Education defended the ban, insisting that it was necessary to prevent the disrespect of entire groups of people, especially in schools where all students should feel welcome.
Despite the controversy, the Connetquot School District has been presented with a proposed settlement that would allow the retention of all images and logos, including the ‘Thunderbirds’ name. Critics, however, have accused the arrangement of being a ‘backroom deal’. While NAGA opposes the ban, some other Native American advocacy groups, including the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), have also expressed opposition to such imagery.