CRANBERRY TWP — Seneca Valley School District's retirement of its Native American-themed imagery associated with the Raiders name was commendable, the National Congress of American Indians said.

But, the NCAI added, it's a first step.

“For those schools currently undergoing a rebrand, Seneca Valley included, an important question remains: What else are they committed to doing to fully sever their school mascots from their long-held associations with Native people — to put an end to the harms those mascots have long caused Native people?” an NCAI statement said.

The congress said Seneca Valley's move last week to retire the imagery is “an important and necessary first step toward creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment that respects all students and cultures.”

So, what other steps are there for the district?

The NCAI said the actions and habits associated with the Native American-related mascot and imagery should be the next focus, with some emphasis on the district's educational offerings about American Indians' present culture and history.

“Typically, it is not enough that the mascot imagery changes,” the congress' statement said. “Changes also need to be made to fan rituals and attire, community behavior and attitudes, and, most importantly, the extent and accuracy of the school's curriculum about Tribal Nations and their citizens.

“NCAI is committed to working with Seneca Valley in this endeavor.”

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