Following New York’s decision to ban Native American-related nicknames in schools, the Southern Cayuga and Weedsport school districts are narrowing down potential new mascots.
Southern Cayuga, previously known as the “Chiefs”, is considering three options: Cougars, Knights, and Red Dragons.
Weedsport, previously the “Warriors”, is contemplating five choices: Evergreen, Express, Green Wave, Thunderbolts, and Wolverines.
The state’s ban requires schools to adopt a new nickname by the end of the 2022-23 academic year and remove all related imagery by June 2025.
The selection process has been community-driven. Southern Cayuga’s committee took community suggestions in September and has since refined its list from 11 to the current three. Weedsport is basing its options on criteria including uniqueness, memorability, and historical relevance.
Final selections are expected in the coming weeks.
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