Inslee wasted little time signing legislation sent to him by the Washington Legislature to phase out “inappropriate” Native mascots.
“This bill will end the disrespectful use of Native American imagery in our public schools,” Inslee said at a private signing ceremony streamed from in his office.
The new law includes an option that could allow some schools to keep using team names like Chiefs, Braves, Indians or Tomahawks. School administrators would need to consult with a nearby Tribe and win permission for respectful use beyond January 1, 2022.
Several school districts in central and eastern Washington have already begun those conversations with Tribal leaders.