On Monday, Oct. 6, Benson Public Schools announced that the Upper Sioux Board of Trustees has unanimously granted consent for Benson Public Schools to continue using the Braves mascot and logo. In alignment with the law passed during the 2025 legislative session, schools now need permission from only the nearest tribal nation and the school’s American Indian Parent Advisory Committee to retain their mascot.

Sen. Torrey Westrom (R-Alexandria) released the following statement applauding this decision:

“Congratulations to the Benson Braves on receiving their exception letter, allowing them to continue using their long-standing and beloved mascot! This is a great outcome for the community and a victory for local control. 

“The mascot ban should never have become such a divisive issue, and it was a mistake for the Democrat-controlled legislature to impose this 2023 law in the first place. Fortunately, a tie in legislative control this year in the House allowed us to provide some flexibility, giving schools like Benson a path to preserve their traditions. 

“This decision not only upholds community pride and common sense, but it also spares the district what could have been more than a million dollars in unnecessary costs.

“Thank you to the Benson School Board, the Upper Sioux Board of Trustees and everyone who worked hard to make sure local voices were heard and common sense prevailed.”