U of I committee says Chief Illiniwek’s time has passed
URBANA, Ill. — The University of Illinois’ Senate Executive Committee has approved a resolution supporting the end of use of Chief Illiniwek.
The News-Gazette reports that the group approved the nonbinding resolution on Wednesday afternoon. The group includes faculty, students and academic professionals. The resolution was brought up in response to an effort by former portrayers of the mascot to bring back a modified Chief Illiniwek.
Chancellor Phyllis Wise has said Chief Illiniwek is a part of the school’s past, not future.
The university stopped using the mascot in 2007 under pressure from the NCAA. Some American Indians consider the mascot and the dances it performed at sports events offensive.
Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked.
If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.