Rogue River, Ore — The Oregon Department of Education makes a ruling against Native American themed mascots, and if that ruling sticks, public schools across the state will have to make a big change.
It’s part of a national debate that’s found it’s way into the halls of Southern Oregon schools. At Rogue River High, home of the Chieftans, a ruling on the state level could change what students there call a rich history that goes far beyond just being a mascot.
Roaming the halls of Rogue River High School there’s no question, this is the home of the Chieftains.
“It makes me proud to call myself a Chieftan, and take on that name as a student here and represent my school,” said Brennan Moody, a Senior.
A ruling by the Department of Education could change that, after a decision was made to ban all Native American themed mascots from public schools.
“Our claim to our mascot, the Chieftains has a direct tie to our history and the things that we’ve done in the past,” said Superintendent Paul Young.
At Rogue River High the Chieftain is more than a mascot it’s a part of the school’s culture.
“The local tribes support us and they think it’s an honor for us to take their name,” said Moody.
James Martin, the grandson of legendary Chief Joseph served on the school’s board for 39 years.
“Their family has been really involved with the guidance of this school district, since, way way way back,” said Young.
While other schools opt for less controversial mascots, The Chieftains of Rogue River High hope their unique bond with history helps them keep their name.
“I love the school, I love the mascot, I love everything about it,” said Moody.
The Oregon state legislature still has the rest of the current session to reverse the Department of Educaton’s decision and give school’s a pathway to keeping their current mascots.
If that doesn’t change schools will have until 2017 to create a plan to make the change.
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