Online Petition Seeks Reversal Of Ban Dropping Chiefs From Massapequa

MASSAPEQUA, NY — The state's decision to remove any Native American imagery as mascots and logos from high schools did not sit well in Massapequa where the "Chiefs" face their demise.

The Board of Education already said it will explore legal remedies to keep the community's beloved name.

The ban has led to an online petition by a woman, who went to Massapequa High School. It had nearly 13,000 signatures as of this writing.

Laura Christopher wrote in her Change.org description that the "Chief" is a "manifestation and celebration of the respect earned and deserved by chiefs throughout Long Island’s history."

Christopher also touches on the long history of Native American life in Massapequa.

"Indeed, the modern area that includes Massapequa was once a center for Native American life," she said.

The open letter from the Board of Education and the Superintendent went a bit further.

"From our very name of Massapequa to the many historical plaques located throughout town, we pay our respects to 365 years of history."

Christopher, who Patch attempted to reach directly for comment, is calling on residents to sign the petition.

"NYS morons want to remove OUR beloved Mascot, let's keep Massapequa and the Chiefs alive," she wrote.