SPRINGFIELD – State Representative John M. Cabello (R-Machesney Park) is calling out a recently passed bill aimed at banning the use of native-themed school mascots and logos, criticizing it as an unfunded, unserious mandate that places a political agenda over real outcomes.
The proposal (HB1237) amends the Illinois School Code to require school districts to prohibit the use of a native name, logo, or mascot, though it oddly allows schools to continue using uniforms or materials bearing those images. Rep. Cabello says the bill is riddled with inconsistencies and lacks any real enforcement mechanism.
“This bill doesn’t carry a penalty if a school ignores it,” said Cabello. “That tells you right there that it’s more about political spin than actual change. If we’re going to talk about this issue seriously, then let’s have a conversation based in reality—not political performance.”
Cabello also raises concerns about the financial burden the legislation places on local school districts and, ultimately, taxpayers.
“We’re talking about a forced mandate that comes with no funding,” Cabello added. “Schools will have to pay out of pocket to repaint logos, rebrand team materials, and replace signage. That’s money that could be going to classrooms and teachers, not some woke rebranding project.”
The Rockford-area lawmaker offered commonsense alternatives for schools that wish to voluntarily move away from native-themed mascots, such as shortening team names, adjusting school colors, and other approaches that avoid excessive costs and disruptions.
“There are ways to make respectful changes that don’t break the bank. But this bill isn’t about solutions—it’s about woke politics,” said Cabello. “April 1st has come and gone, but Illinois lawmakers are still playing pranks. Illinois families are tired of it. They want us to focus on affordability, public safety, and quality education—not meaningless mascot politics.”
Rep. John M. Cabello, a long-time advocate for responsible governance and fiscal accountability, says he will continue to stand up against mandates that place additional burdens on local communities without delivering meaningful results.
For further details or inquiries, please contact Representative Cabello at 815-621-2196.