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Illinois legislation to ban Native American school names and imagery moves forward

Friday, April 11, 2025 at 11:29 AM

By Steve Anderson

Schools across Illinois such as Lawrenceville, Wayne City and Casey-Westfield would have to change their team names, mascots and logos if proposed legislation passes the State Senate and is signed into law.

Controversial House Bill 1237 banning Native American names and images for K-12 schools passed the House Thursday and now heads to the Senate.

If passed, it would mean added expenses for the schools affected.

The bill would essentially be a mandate with no funding.

Schools would have to pay out of pocket to repaint team logos, buy new uniforms and replace signage.

The changes would not have to be made until 2030, but schools must have a plan to change their name and mascots by July of 2026, if passed and signed into law by the governor.

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