Western NY school district changes mascot, nickname. Here's why
Another western New York school district has changed its mascot, ridding its traditional Native American name and image after a community search that yielded over 100 suggestions.
The Keshequa Central School District change from the Indians to the Wildcats is in keeping with a New York State Board of Regents vote in April 2023 that now prohibits the use of Native American names, mascots and logos for school districts and their teams.
The mascot was unveiled earlier this month at a pep rally that featured a video celebrating "the history of the school district, the significance of the new mascot, and how we're continuing to honor our local area," according to the district website.
It's at least the third in the region to change its mascot under the board decision since 2023.
Canandaigua City School District changed from its Braves nickname and Friendship Belt logo last year after a lengthy process. The district's mascot is now the Gray Wolves. The Avon Central School District also changed from the Braves to the River Hawks after a vote in January.
This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Keshequa unveils new mascot after NY prohibits Native American logos
