University of Illinois Retires Mascot, Ends Native American Abuse
University of Illinois Retires Mascot, Ends Native American Abuse
Chief Illiniwek, the University of Illinois' mascot for nearly 81 years, is finally being retired after recieveing criticism. Activists and some American Indians claim that Chief Illiniwek is offensive, and they're not the only ones. Even the NCAA declared that the mascot represented American Indian imagery in a "hostile and abusive" manner, which led them to enforce sanctions that shut down U of I's postseason.
On the other hand, supporters of the mascot argue that he represents noble and honorable traditions. What makes it murky is that not even all American Indians agree on whether or not he is a positive or negative symbol in their community. Either way, why be represented by a mascot that would stir up feelings of racism and mockery in anyone? U of I has taken a mature step forward by deciding to end an offensive tradition.
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