A New Illini Mascot?

I have to shake my head at the continuing controversy at the University of Illinois  over the symbol of an Indian chief from a non-existent Native American tribe.

Of course, I’m talking about Illiniwek, who was killed by the NCAA in 2007 because he was “hostile and abusive.” Gary Simpson, FCHS Class of ’65, actually proudly portrayed the Chief. I’m sure he wouldn’t agree with the NCAA.

I gotta tell you, all I ever saw was a brilliant representative of a past culture. The very same thing is happening every week at Florida State University where the tribe, the Seminoles, told the NCAA to leave their symbol alone. The Seminoles like the attention.

Florida State fans also like to “tomahawk chop” throughout the game. I think you could see the tomahawk chop as an act of violent behavior.

At Florida State, an angry warrior races to the middle of the field pre-game and angrily plants a spear in the Seminole logo.  

At Illinois, back in the day, Illiniwek would do a spirited dance at halftime. No spear, no chop, no disrespect to the Illini tribe….a tribe that actually disbanded in the 1700s. There’s no spokesperson for the Illini to tell the NCAA to go blow.

So, now, with the controversy just as strong as it was when Illiniwek was retired, the U of I says it is examining a new mascot…..something less hostile….less abusive.

I have a few ideas. Given the state’s financial condition…..How about the University of Illinois Paupers? A disheveled farmer with both pockets pulled out of his jeans? He can dance out to the middle of the field at halftime and write bad checks. Checks from a bank account that doesn’t exist. Enough.

Political correctness cops rule on most major universities….our U of I is not different. But this 11-year discussion is getting old…and a new mascot will do nothing to quiet supporters of the Chief.