Is the 81-year-old American Indian mascot, Chief Illiniwek an offensive use of American Indian imagery?
The mascot has been used since 1926. Supporters of the mascot say it honors the contributions of American Indians to Illinois. I grew up watching Illini sports, and the chief has always been a proud tradition of the University of Illinois. Its a sad day for this Illini fan.
Natasha, as an Illini, I will discuss those points you made and I would be happy to discuss this matter even further with you since you are “educated” on the topic.
1) Chief Illiniwek currect is portrayed by a white male. He has also been portrayed by Native Americans and white females. It is a try out system and the best is the one who gets to perform. Why are you complaining about just Native Americans? Why not the Irish? Why do you protestors not speak out about Notre Dame having a guy dress up like a drunk Leprecan…or is it okay to make fun of white people?
2) The outfit was given to the University of Illinois by the Souix. This was to make it more authentic, since the Illiniwek tribe was wiped out long ago, it is hard to find those that can make that dress.
3) Once again, the person portraying the Chief would have to go each year to learn about the Native American culture and would be taught this dance by the Souix.
4) Once again, the head dress was a gift by the Souix.
5) The dance is what is considered a fancy dance by the Souix. It is not meant to be anything religious, just a way to bring about pride and excitement to the crowd.
I love how everyone believes that we are blatantly making fun of Native American Culture, because when this was brought into existance 81 years ago, it was done with a sense of pride in the fact that we tried to bring a connection to the past of who was actually on this land before it became a state in our great union. That is why the State is called Illinois…the land of the Illini. The whole reason for the University (that and corn).
Oh, btw, scalping was invented by the French so that the Native Americans could bring back a “trophy” to get paid for killing the British and her colonies. The colonists did not scalp Native peoples…learn your history since you are so educated.
You seem to have missed the point. The Chief was a symbol of pride and bravery for the fans and the team. We in the Marching Illini and all the faithful Illini alumni held the Chief with reverence. That is a special tradition that will be no more because of those “educated” people say they are the most tolerant about issues until it happens to them.
2010 Indian Chief Roadmaster
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