California High School Fights State Law Mandating Mascot Change

Marysville High School is challenging California Gov. Gavin Newsom's directive to retire its "Indians" mascot, a tradition spanning nearly a century. The school is exploring avenues to secure tribal consent to maintain its mascot under a new state law that prohibits public schools from using Native American terms as mascots.

The California Racial Mascot Act, extended by Newsom in 2024, forbids schools from using "any derogatory Native American term, as defined, as a school or athletic team name, mascot, or nickname." Exceptions are made for schools operated by an Indian tribe or with consent from a federally recognized tribe.

Marysville Joint Unified School District Superintendent Jordan Reeves stated that the school board "recognizes the deep history and tradition associated with the Indians mascot and acknowledges the strong connection many alumni, students, staff, and community members have to it." The district has engaged with local tribal representatives in an attempt to gain written consent, but this had not been secured before the law's effective date.

According to Reeves, tribal leaders have largely remained neutral on the issue. The school currently has no plans to select a new mascot and intends to continue pursuing consent to keep its traditional imagery. "Marysville Joint Unified School District will continue pursuing opportunities to obtain written permission from a local, federally recognized tribe that would allow Marysville High School to retain its historic mascot under the provisions of state law," Reeves said in a statement. "Marysville High School remains committed to honoring its proud traditions while continuing to serve students and uphold the long-standing values and expectations of the Marysville community."

Some alumni and school employees have expressed opposition to the mascot's removal, arguing that it was viewed with respect by students. "I do remember the Indian Way and how it was built (with) respect and (to) hold your head high," said Marcy Tarr, a track and field coach and alumna. "Indians were good leaders."