Illinois Representative to discuss changes to ‘harmful’ school mascots

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)- Illinois State Representative, Maurice West (D- Rockford) will join an advocacy group, Mascots Matter to discuss their initiative to prohibit Illinois public schools from using what they call “discriminatory disability mascots”.

West introduced House Bill 3527, which creates the Prohibition of Discriminatory Disability Mascots Act and would require public schools to phase out any problematic name, logo, mascots or other relevant material. In the bill, “discriminatory disability mascot” is defined as any name, logo or mascot which is derogatory or representative of an individual or group based on disability, as defined by the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.

Representative West says the bill “is a critical step toward ensuring all individuals are empowered to embrace diversity, respect, and cultural understanding. We believe that this important measure will help foster a more inclusive future for Illinois, one that honors the dignity of every community.” If passed and implemented impacted schools would need to have adopted a new mascot identity by September 1 of 2028.