🧑‍🤝‍🧑Mascot: "Arabs"

The "Mighty Arabs" mascot of Coachella Valley High School in California has a fascinating history that's both unique and controversial. This mascot, which has been around since the 1920s, was originally chosen to honor the region's historical connection to the Middle East, particularly the date industry. Over the years, the mascot has undergone several changes due to feedback from the community and organizations like the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee. Initially, the mascot wore a fez, then a head scarf (or kaffiyeh) after visitors from Saudi Arabia suggested the change, and most recently, it was updated in 2013 to a more respectful image with a trimmed beard and kaffiyeh featuring the school's initials "CV."🛡️ Despite the controversy, the school has worked hard to ensure the mascot respects Arab culture while still representing school spirit. It's an interesting example of how mascots can evolve to better reflect community values. ⭐