School mascots can create a shared identity and foster a sense of loyalty among fans and communities. But some mascots, especially those that may be viewed as stereotypical or insensitive to cultural subgroups, can also cause controversy.

This issue recently caused a deep rift throughout a local school district in Ohio, where a debate around a Native American mascot became a fascinating story that touched upon moral psychology, the importance of local politics, and the ways in which other schools can navigate similar challenges.