Massachusetts Pushes to Ban Native Mascots | Boston News

A state committee is urging Governor Healey to ban Native American mascots in Massachusetts schools using her executive power, backing a stalled Senate bill. Research shows these mascots harm Native students by lowering self-esteem, increasing bias, and creating hostile environments — with 25 communities still clinging to them despite tribal and national pleas. While some districts like Barnstable and Hanover have dropped the mascots, others like Tewksbury and Wakefield voted to keep them. Tribal representatives say the imagery mocks, stereotypes, and dehumanizes Native people. The coalition argues state action is essential, as local decisions are often swayed by non-Native majorities fearing backlash — making this a critical step for civil rights, racial justice, and equitable education. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1cd7939c1cd86d49