ABOUT:

Boone County High School needs to move forward by retiring its identity as “the Rebels.” Steeped in divisive and racist imagery, does not reflect the values we strive for as a community. Every student deserves a school environment that promotes respect, safety, and a sense of belonging—free from symbols that evoke oppression or trauma. A new mascot is the only way forward to allow students, alumni, and community members to rally together under a new symbol that truly represents all of us.

HISTORY:

In 1955, the original class chose the Rebels as the school’s official mascot. While many claim it was a tribute to the blockbuster film starring James Dean, Rebel Without A Cause, the mascot has always been depicted as a Confederate general. Furthermore, for many years the marching band bore the name “The Rebel Brigade” (eponymous with an active chapter of the Ku Klux Klan) until it was changed to the “Marching Rebels.” While the Confederate iconography was phased out six years ago, the school now bears no physical mascot. The name 'Rebels' remains.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

• Sign and Share this petition!
• Contact Principal Stacey Black
  • stacey.black@boone.kyschools.us
• Contact Superintendent Matt Turner
  • matthew.turner@boone.kyschools.us
• Make your voice heard by the BCHS Site Based Decision Making Council