A judge in Waukesha County has ruled a controversial state law that allows for the removal of race-based mascots from school districts is unconstitutional. The law allows the Department of Public Instruction to order districts to change school team nicknames after someone has filed a challenge against their use. The judge determined the law is unconstitutional because the DPI would be biased in reviewing the claims.
The decision comes out of a lawsuit filed by two men from Mukwonago, which is among the handful of school districts impacted by the law so far. The school was ordered to change its “Indians” nickname after a complaint was filed with DPI.
Attorney Sam Hall represented the men challenging the law. He says the ruling could have a widespread impact across the state with other districts facing similar challenges.
It’s unknown if the decision will be appealed.
AUDIO: Attorney Sam Hall (:19)
Mike Kemmeter, WHBY