Trump Threatens to Defund NYC Schools Over Racist Mascots

Linda McMahon, Trump's education secretary and former WWE executive, is facing intense backlash for her stance on Native American mascots in New York schools. McMahon, whose family's wrestling empire profited from racially insensitive performances, is demanding that schools reinstate these mascots or risk losing federal funding.

<figure><img src="https://www.thenation.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/mcmahon-chiefs-press-conference-getty.jpg" alt="Secretary of Education Linda McMahon at a press conference"></figure>

This controversial move comes after New York State banned the use of Native American mascots in public high schools. McMahon argues that the ban is itself racist and has threatened to withhold funding from schools that comply. She claims this is to protect the “history and culture of Native American tribes”, a statement widely criticized by actual tribal councils who consider the mascots degrading and harmful to Native children.

The situation highlights a deeper conflict between the Trump administration's social agenda and the fight against racism. Critics point to McMahon's lack of education experience and her family's history of exploiting racial stereotypes in WWE as evidence of her unfit position to make such judgments.

The administration's justification for this action is based on a flawed comparison to other school mascots, such as "the Dutchmen." This comparison ignores the historical context of Native American oppression and the deep-seated racism embedded in these mascots. It's a thinly veiled attempt to maintain a racist status quo, further dividing communities rather than addressing true equity and inclusion.

<p>The article further highlights other examples of the administration's divisive policies, including the weaponization of the Justice Department to attack anti-racism initiatives. </p>

The controversy sparked protests in Massapequa, where a high school is facing pressure to maintain a Native American mascot. This underscores the grassroots resistance to the administration's actions and the growing momentum to fight for racial justice.

This move by the Trump administration is seen by many as a distraction tactic from the more pressing issues like the new budget that will heavily impact the citizens and deprive many of essential health care. However, it also reveals the administration's reliance on division to further its aims.

Key takeaway: The fight against racism is not merely a social issue, but crucial for building unity against authoritarian policies. The Trump administration's attempt to weaponize education funding against schools adhering to anti-racist policies highlights this crucial link.