Trump’s MAGA base doesn’t like this one.
A Northern California high school has officially retired its longtime mascot after a California law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom took effect this week, ending a tradition that had been part of the school for nearly 100 years.
Beginning Wednesday, Marysville High School stopped using its historic “Indians” mascot to comply with California’s expanded Racial Mascot Act, legislation Newsom signed in 2024.
California’s law bars public schools from using Native American-themed names, mascots, or nicknames that are classified as offensive under state guidelines. The only exceptions apply to schools run by federally recognized tribes or those that have obtained written authorization from one.
For many residents of Marysville, the change represents more than a new logo. It marks the end of a tradition that generations of students, teachers, parents, and alumni have associated with school pride and local history.
School officials acknowledged those concerns while explaining they had no choice but to comply with state law.
Marysville Joint Unified School District Superintendent Jordan Reeves said district leaders recognize the strong emotional connection many people have with the mascot.
Reeves said the Board of Trustees understands that the “Indians” mascot has long been an important part of the school’s history and traditions, and recognizes the lasting attachment many students, alumni, employees, and community members have to it.
According to the district, administrators spent months working with nearby federally recognized tribes in hopes of obtaining the written consent required under California law. However, no agreement was reached before the legal deadline arrived.
Reeves noted that tribal representatives have generally remained neutral on the issue and have not taken an official position regarding whether the mascot should remain.
Rather than rushing to introduce a replacement, district officials say they will continue pursuing permission that could allow Marysville High School to restore its historic mascot under the law’s existing exemptions.
Reeves said the district plans to keep working toward securing written approval from a nearby federally recognized tribe, which would allow Marysville High School to continue using its longtime mascot under California law.
Until then, the school will move forward without a permanent mascot while continuing discussions with tribal leaders.
The decision has disappointed many longtime supporters of the school, who argue the mascot was intended to honor leadership, courage, and tradition rather than offend anyone.
Speaking with The Appeal-Democrat, Marysville graduate and current track and field coach Marcy Tarr recalled growing up with what students called the “Indian Way.”
Tarr recalled that the school’s “Indian Way” tradition emphasized respect, dignity, and personal pride. She added that students were taught to view Native Americans as strong leaders and positive role models.
Many alumni have echoed similar sentiments, saying they viewed the mascot as a symbol of school spirit rather than a negative stereotype.
The debate surrounding school mascots has become increasingly common across the country as states and school districts reconsider names and symbols that have existed for decades. Supporters of California’s law argue it promotes greater cultural sensitivity, while critics believe decisions involving local traditions should be made by individual communities instead of state government.
For Marysville High School, the immediate focus is complying with state law while continuing efforts to obtain tribal approval that could eventually allow the historic mascot to return.
As the discussion continues, the controversy highlights a broader debate over local control, community traditions, and the role state governments should play in decisions that many residents believe are best handled at the local level.
