CONVERSATION WITH THE PUBLISHER THE BOARD

Question about the chief
draws large, favorable response

by Ed Wojcicki

Like it or not, the political question about Chief Illiniwek as the mascot of the University of Illinois is not going away. Some Illinoisans on both sides of the argument want the governor or the legislature to get involved to keep the chief or replace him.

A friend let me know she did not like the wording of my recent Question of the Month: "Do you think the University of Illinois should keep Chief Illiniwek to attend and dance at various university functions?"

Indeed, a Springfield reader responded that I posed the question negatively, thereby increasing the likelihood of negative responses.

Well, these people will be happy to learn that readers who responded to our informal survey overwhelmingly want the U of I to keep the chief. Many said Chief Illiniwek is a dignified and respectful symbol, not only for the university, but for the entire state.

Former state Sen. Bill Harris of Pontiac (also a former Illinois Issues board member) was among those who appreciate the chief. "The performance of Chief Illiniwek is done with beauty, style [and in] good taste.... It's difficult for me to understand how anyone can be offended." Another chief supporter had this to say: "I plant seeds in Illinois' rich soils as a fifth-generation farmer. To find a rusty horseshoe unlocks my imagination. To discover a pristine arrowhead unfolds my timeless effort. Watching Chief Illiniwek welds my imagination with respect."

Still other chief supporters chided "the politically correct police" for making an issue of the chief in the first place. "I am so put off by the conduct of the opponents. How far is this thing going?" a Springfield reader asked. "Are we going to change the name of the state as well?"

At the same time, I know this issue is politically sensitive. A couple of readers suggested we keep the "Fighting Illini" name but stop using Chief Illiniwek. Most of those opposed to having the chief at U of I functions expressed personal respect for "native Americans" or "Indians."

"If the group the chief is alleged to represent is offended by this mascot, then the wishes of that group should be respected," one reader said. A Champaign reader had a similar view: "It upsets too many people now. Time to let the chief retire." The debate goes on.

On another topic, I am happy to announce that Illinois Issues once again is a co-sponsor of the Motorola Excellence in Public Service Award. It is now customary for us to invite you to nominate an appointed official who heads a major agency in the city of Chicago, Cook County or the state of Illinois for recognition as an innovative, successful leader. The nomination form can be found on page 13.

Illinois Issues June 1998 / 3