At least two state legislatures will consider legislation this year to limit or ban the use of racially based names, nicknames, logos or mascots.
· Wisconsin Assembly Bill 35 and its companion Senate Bill 25, would create a process for residents to file a complaint with the state superintendent of public instruction objecting to the use of race-based names, nicknames, logos or mascots by their respective school district.
Under this legislation, if the superintendent finds that the race-based name, nickname, logo or mascot promotes discrimination, pupil harassment, or stereotyping—the school district will have 12 months to terminate its use of race-based name, nickname, logo or mascot or face a daily fine of between $100-$1000.
Text of Wisconsin Assembly Bill 35, Senate Bill 25
· Oklahoma Senate Bill 765 would prohibit the use of racially derogatory or discriminatory school or athletic team names, mascots, or nicknames by Oklahoma Public Schools. Schools in violation of the legislation would be subject to a daily fine of no less than $500.
Text of Oklahoma Senate Bill 765
To search current legislation on a variety of issues that affect the Native American population, visit the NCSL State-Tribal Institute’s Legislative Database