In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,  North Hills Progressives calls on our School Board to change our Native American mascot.

This call to action resonates with Dr. King's powerful reminder that "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." By employing our Native American neighbors' culture as a mascot, we not only perpetuate stereotypes but also dehumanize the rich and proud heritage of Native American communities.

Across America, we strive to combat the dehumanization of Black and Brown individuals—a cause that has seen an awakening in recent events in Minneapolis and beyond. By holding onto a mascot that represents a historical misappropriation of Native American culture, we contribute to the racism persistent in society.

As educators and leaders committed to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for all students, we must reflect Dr. King's vision for justice and equality. Schools have a profound impact on shaping the minds and values of young people, and our decision to reevaluate and change our mascot can play a pivotal role in guiding our community toward greater understanding and respect for all cultures.

Changing the mascot is not just a symbolic act; it is a concrete step towards justice. This change enables us to stand in solidarity with underrepresented groups, amplifying voices that are often marginalized in broader societal conversations. 

Now is the time to act, to change the narrative we pass on to future generations, and to embody the principles Dr. King dedicated his life to realizing. Our mascot should reflect the values of inclusiveness, respect, and equality, honoring rather than misrepresenting diverse cultures.

We urge the School Board to listen to our call. Let us honor Dr. King's legacy of justice and equality by changing our mascot to one that represents these ideals. Please sign this petition and help us bring about this necessary change for our community.