Decades-long debate over Arcadia High School's use of Apache imagery resurfaces. The controversy began in 1997. In the late 1990s, Native American activists threatened to sue Arcadia High School over the use of the Apache mascot. "Apache Joe" mascot is no longer used. In 2020, a year of massive protests and change in the United States, perhaps another look at the logo and name may be in order. Arcadia schools Superintendent David Vannasdall responded, in part, with why Arcadia High School continues to use the Apache name, citing the strong partnership between Arcadia High School and the White Mountain Apache Tribe, who granted the use of their name to the school. He said, regardless of the school's mascot name, he will continue to honor the relationship he and Arcadia High School have with the White Mountain Apache Tribe and is fortunate to call them friends. He believes revisiting this issue on a regular basis is wise.
Arcadia faith leaders voice support for peaceful protests. Members of Arcadia Interfaith Action Group--representing the Baha'i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh faith community--vehemently condemn the "senseless murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer." The group recognizes "that people of color are much more likely to be the victims of such violent treatment by law enforcement personnel."
Former Mayor, students reflect on continuing controversy over Apache imagery use at Arcadia High School.1342 people have signed petition to stop its use as a mascot.
Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests continue to build momentum across the nation and around the world demanding justice for the death of George Floyd and bringing the issue of systemic racism to Arcadia, where hundreds gathered to protest at Arcadia County Park.
Affirmative action vote splits Asian-Americans. Community members take part in a "No on Proposition 16" rally at Arcadia County Park on August 8. Prop 16 would legalize race-aware decisions in public college admissions, hiring, and contracting. This is a divisive issue among Asian-Americans. Some view it as racist. One banner reads, "Keep discrimination illegal."
Sex therapist Dr. Susan Block is in a zoning fight with Arcadia City. Her building is zoned for office use, not residential, although building license inspectors found 10 bedrooms inside. The brick building is on Las Tunas Drive and is the business location of Saybrook Media, where The Dr. Susan Block Show is produced. Susan Block, aka Dr. Suzy, had an HBO Special "Radio Sex TV with Dr. Susan Block" in the 1990s.