Illinois law would force schools to change controversial mascots

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — A new bill would require schools in Illinois to change “the problematic names of certain mascots” if it becomes law.

Rockford Rep. Maurice West (D) filed House Bill 3527 in February, which would create the Prohibition of Discriminatory Mascots Act, which would require schools to phase out “any name, logo or mascot that is derogatory or representative of an individual or group based on disability, as defined by the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.”

The bill is in response to a complaint, filed by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights by the activist group Mascots Matter, which accused Freeburg High School’s mascot, the “Midgets,” of offending people with dwarfism.

“We need to ensure all schools across Illinois show empathy and compassion in addressing the problematic names of certain mascots,” said West. “Our schools should be a place we teach our children about respect and understanding, and holding on to sport nicknames considered to be a slur is irresponsible.”

If passed, the law would require schools to adopt a new mascot by September 1st, 2028.

West is also behind House Bill 5617, which would amend the school code to prohibit school use the likeness of any person, animal, or object associated with Native American culture.