What's in a Name!

Rather than "assuming" about our town's name and logo, I thought it best to go directly to the source. I just communicated with the Montauk Tribe of Indians who would be the ones affected by our 130-year-old name a logo. Let's see what they have to say.

Here is what I wrote:

Montauk Tribe of Indians Council of Elders

51 Jefferson Street, Amityville, New York 11701

As you may have heard, the politicians who run NY State have directed that all schools remove any Native American names and Logos since, in their opinion, they are "offensive" to Native Americans.

I live in Wantagh (Sachem of your tribe many years ago) and in addition to the name of our town which honors his name, the logo of our schools has been an image of a Native American warrior. We have proudly had our name and logo for over 130 years.

Rather than the non-native American politicians in Albany assuming that this is offensive to your tribe and people, I felt it was best and respectful to ask you directly.

As mentioned, this has been in honor of your Chief and Warrior and was never intended to offend anyone.

May I please have your input and opinion about this if you don't mind. If you find this offensive, I will lead the charge to have it changed. But if you recognize that it is and always has been intended to honor, not offend, your input would be invaluable in resisting this political move by Albany.

Respectfully,

Semper Fi,

Vincent (Vinny) Ciro