Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced Friday that New York violated civil rights law by banning the use of Native American mascots and logos by schools in the state, threatening to pull federal funding if it does not reverse course.

An investigation into the state was opened after the Native American Guardians Association filed a complaint with the Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights alleging the state was violating Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by forcing Massapequa High School to change its mascot from its “chiefs” mascot.

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“The Trump Administration will not stand idly by as state leaders attempt to eliminate the history and culture of Native American tribes,” McMahon said Friday. “Rather than focus on learning outcomes, the New York Department of Education and Board of Regents has set its sights on erasing Massapequa’s history — while turning a blind eye to other districts’ mascots that are derived from or connected to other racial or ethnic groups.”

“We will stand with the people of Massapequa until commonsense is restored and justice is served, and until New York comes into compliance with federal law,” she added.

The Education Department found that the state violated Title VI by allowing school mascots of other racial and ethnic groups, but not those relating to Native American groups.

The department issued a proposed resolution agreement to resolve the noncompliance finding, which includes rescinding the rule banning Native American mascots and telling schools they may use Title VI compliant mascots, along with issuing an apology letter to Native American tribes.

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The Department of Education warned if the state does not follow through with the proposed resolution within 10 days, it risks losing federal funding and referral to the Justice Department.

A spokesperson for the New York Education Department, JP O’Hare, told the Associated Press McMahon’s announcement was “political theater” and claimed that local tribes have told officials that “certain Native American names and images perpetuate negative stereotypes and are demonstrably harmful to children.”