West Praises House Passage of Bill to Prohibit Discriminatory Mascots in Public Schools

ROCKFORD, Ill. –  Today, the Illinois House of Representatives passed HB3527, the Prohibition of Discriminatory Disability Mascots Act, by a vote of 71-38. The legislation prohibits public schools from using the name, logo, or mascot that is derogatory or representative of an individual or group based on disability.

“Mascots should uplift, not discriminate, while creating a supportive environment for all students,” said Assistant Majority Leader and chief bill sponsor State Rep. Maurice West (D-Chicago). “Harmful and outdated mascots from Illinois schools, including those that perpetuate harmful stereotypes, have no place in our state. This bill is a critical step toward ensuring our schools foster a more inclusive, respectful future for all in Illinois. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the state senate to pass this bill into law.”

The Prohibition of Discriminatory Disability Mascots Act would require relevant public schools to phase out their problematic name, logo, mascot and other relevant material. “Discriminatory disability mascot” is defined in the legislation as any name, logo or mascot that is derogatory or representative of an individual or group based on disability, as defined by the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. If passed and implemented, impacted schools would need to have adopted a new mascot identity by September 1, 2028.

The legislation now goes to the state senate, where it must pass before going to Gov. Pritzker for final approval before becoming law.

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