A group protesting the use of Native Americans as sports team mascots has planned a rally for Saturday afternoon in Seminole, but city officials say event organizers have not obtained the required permit for holding special events.

The rally was organized by Red Bear Williams, who last month contacted Seminole Mayor Jeff Griffin about removing the “Chieftain” logo from city-owned property. Williams has also been in contact with Seminole Public Schools about the use of the Chieftain mascot.

The City of Seminole requires that permits be obtained for all special events, and permit applications must be submitted at least three days in advance of the event. City Manager Steve Saxon said on Friday that a permit had not been requested for Saturday’s rally, and the event’s organizers may have skipped that step on purpose.

“We just became aware of the protest. The organizers did not pull a permit,” Saxon said. “We can only conclude their strategy is to have us overreact, thus helping their publicity. We will keep an eye on the situation. However, the last time they protested at a football game we staffed up and actually brought in outside security to keep the peace. They only had three people show up and as I recall, those were from out of town.”

Saxon said the city maintains that a Chieftain is an honorary title rather than derogatory slur, and he doesn’t see removing the Chieftain logo from city property, particularly the water tower on Highland, unless the local school system changes mascots.

“Clearly, in today’s climate everyone needs to be aware of the message being sent as well as the intent. I am sure that the city council would take a look at removing the logo on the water tower if Seminole Public Schools changes their mascot. I cannot not speak for the council, but I think until the mascot changes, it will be proudly proclaimed, `once a Chieftain, always a Chieftain.

According to a flyer, the rally will kick off at 2 p.m. Saturday at Boom Town Park and the group plans to walk to the tower on Highland Street. The protest includes speakers for educational purposes and food will be provided. The event is promoted on Facebook as “Removal of Seminole Racist Mascot.”