The state Board of Regents’ edict to exclude Native American insignia from all New York schools has forced the Amityville School District on Long Island to change its cherished Warriors moniker.
According to a news release, the Suffolk County district formally changed its name to the Hawks last week in an effort to display “a powerful symbol of strength and courage.”
“While I understand that changing our mascot brings strong emotions for some, I am hopeful that we can move forward together, united in pride for our school community,” Amityville Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gina Talbert stated.
According to Talbert, it would cost roughly $200,000 to replace the logos on school buildings.
The action follows a judge’s recent dismissal of a lawsuit to retain its long-standing Chiefs identity, prompting school board leaders in Massapequa, a hamlet near west, to urge President Trump to reverse the Native American emblem prohibition.
The school district in Nassau County is concerned that a required rebranding might cost it up to $1 million.
Two additional nearby Native American-named communities, Wantagh and Wyandanch, which also proudly utilize the Warriors as their team name, were also included in the lawsuit.
Included in the lawsuit were the Connetquot Thunderbirds, who have the same name as a Canadian Hockey League team located west of Seattle, Washington.
Amityville withdrew from the lawsuit in the fall.
According to Talbert, Amityville only took this action after being priced out by reaching a $17,000 budget cap for the court battle.
Outside Amityville High School, a sign depicts an unusual Native American figure.
According to Talbert, there are no Native American representations on team jerseys or in sports facilities.
According to the district’s announcement, the Hawks name was selected after “a thoughtful process which involved input from the entire school community.”
Student Stabbed at New Jersey High School, Another Taken Into Custody After Lockdown
“The district then held several focus groups with various student groups, including Amityville student-athletes.,” the report stated.
The student body will vote in the upcoming weeks to determine how their new visual brand will look after choosing the name from the top four options.
Source: NY Post
