“Save the Chiefs”: New York puts Chiefs name on chopping block, sparking Donald Trump-backed revolt to ‘save the mascot’ | NFL News
A New York state ruling against Native American team names has sparked strong opposition in Massapequa, Long Island. Residents are vigorously defending their high school’s “Chiefs” mascot through a public campaign, backed by figures like Donald Trump and Linda McMahon, challenging the ban’s legality and financial impact.
State crackdown on Chiefs name sparks political war featuring Trump and school moms
A recent New York state regulation banning Native American team names has provoke considerable pushback in Massapequa, Long Island. The community is persistently fighting to keep their high school’s beloved “Chiefs” mascot, viewing it as fundamental to their local identity.In defiance of the 2023 state decree, Massapequa has launched an extensive drive to protect its symbol. This involves hosting local gatherings, marketing “Save the Chiefs” items, and securing support from influential political figures like President Donald Trump and former Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. Tara Tarasi, a mother and activist backing the legal fight, quipped, “We’re talking pep rallies with a legal fund on the side.” She emphasized, “This whole town bleeds maroon, gold, and… possibly court filings.”Tarasi, whose four sons proudly wore the Chiefs logo, emphasized that the name outstrips mere athletic branding; it embodies Massapequa’s very essence. She stated, “Every street, every sign, every firetruck practically has some Native American connection. You can’t just delete that with a rebrand.”Linda McMahon recently spoke to an enthusiastic gathering at the school gym, resisting that barring the “Chiefs” while allowing other symbols like “Highlanders” or “Vikings” demonstrates prejudice. She declared, “You’re gonna ban the Chiefs but let the Huguenots live? That’s some selective cancel culture.” McMahon even implied the Justice Department’s potential involvement, indicating their resolute stance.Donald Trump contributed a brief yet potent statement: “LONG LIVE THE MASSAPEQUA CHIEFS!” This phrase now features prominently on apparel sold at school events, highlighting the town’s bold defiance against what they see as “cancel culture.” In response, the New York Department of Education has reportedly threatened to extend the ban to all potentially offensive ethnic mascots, which might lead to the elimination of symbols like the Seaford Vikings.Massapequa School Board President Kerry Wachter termed this action “their petty workaround,” explaining, “We show the rule is unfair, and their response is, ‘Fine, no fun for anyone.'” Wachter estimated rebranding costs could exceed “$1 million,” even joking, “And that’s if we go with ‘The Generic Gold Team.'” He vowed, “If we have to sacrifice our school board seats to keep the Chiefs, we’ll do it. And we’ll do it proudly in full mascot regalia.”Also Read: Aaron Rodgers sparks Steelers fan meltdown as jersey-burning protest ignites controversy in Pittsburgh
