The Strong Family Health Center’s Native Youth Board has been actively working to preserve the Modoc Braves and Modoc Warriors mascots in light of California Assembly Bill 3047, which mandates the removal of native mascots by July 1, 2026. The board, comprised of Chairperson Saige Townsend-Brown, Vice-Chairperson Justin Holloway, Secretary Savannah French-Connors, and Member Betty George, initiated their campaign in October 2024.
After consulting with Assembly Member Heather Hadwick, the board developed a strategy and engaged with Modoc Joint Unified School District (MJUSD) Superintendent Tom O’Malley. They composed a letter to the MJUSD Board of Directors and collected signatures from fellow native students in support of retaining the mascots. On January 14, 2025, they presented their case at an MJUSD Board Meeting, gaining a positive reception.
Their advocacy has led to Superintendent O’Malley approaching the Pit River Tribal Council with their letter of support. Recognizing their efforts, the SFHC Native Youth Board has been invited to the State Capitol in Sacramento for a VIP tour and meetings with Tribal lobbyists. The board expresses gratitude to the MJUSD Board of Directors and Superintendent O’Malley for considering their perspective.
