Linda McMahon, who served as Secretary of Education under Trump, stands firm on her commitment to defend the Massapequa High School mascot, a Native American chief. She labeled this cause as a “top priority” for her team.
The challenge for Massapequa, as well as for Connetquot High School with its Thunderbirds nickname, started in 2023 when the New York State Board of Regents announced a ban on public schools using indigenous names and symbols. The Board also hinted at financial penalties for non-compliance.
While four districts, including Massapequa, protested the decision, a federal judge backed New York’s authority earlier this year, intensifying the debate.
This matter echoes national controversies, such as those involving the renaming of sports teams like the Washington Redskins and Cleveland Indians. Trump has vocally asserted that these historic names should be restored. Recently, he implied his support for Massapequa, expressing his passion for the town’s identity during an appearance on Fox News, stating, “I love Massapequa. We must bring the name back to the Chiefs.”
Trump insisted that losing the Chiefs name is a disservice rather than a means of respect toward Native Americans.
The Chiefs nickname was initially adopted to honor the Massapequa Tribe, the long-time inhabitants of Long Island before displacement in the 17th century by European settlers.
Earlier this year, he shared his opinion via Truth Social, asking McMahon to take action and was later photographed wearing a Chiefs jersey during an Instagram post in the Oval Office.
During her visit to the school in May, McMahon also wore a Chiefs-themed shirt. She hinted at possible legal action against the Board, arguing that their mandate violates Title VI of the federal Civil Rights Act and warned of potential repercussions, including audits by the Justice Department if state officials refuse to reconsider.
In her recent comments, McMahon reiterated that preserving the rights for Massapequa, Connetquot, and other Native groups to honor and preserve their heritage is crucial for the administration.
She further commended Massapequa and Connetquot districts for their relentless efforts against those she calls “woke ideologues” trying to erase their mascots.
Kerry Wachter, the president of the Massapequa school board, expressed her surprise at Trump’s involvement but was grateful for the reinforcement it brought. She shared with Newsmax her initial hope that he would respond, which he indeed did, and this brought excitement to the community.
Wachter also highlighted the financial burden of rebranding, estimating that changing the Chiefs name could cost the district about $1 million. She noted that the mascot’s imagery is embedded not only within the school premises but throughout the town, which has ties to the Massapequa Indians.
To remove these iconic symbols would feel like an insincere disregard for their history, according to Wachter. She’s been active in advocating for Trump to issue an executive order to safeguard their mascot.
The school has also brought a new attorney, Oliver Roberts, on board to strengthen their case against the state of New York.
