The Chief Illiniwek controversy will not fade away at the University of Illinois. Someone has put up a large billboard near the campus that reads, “The Chief… Yesterday… Today… Forever.”
The school symbol was retired in 2007 amid concerns that it was insensitive to Native Americans. But the Chief continues to show up on shirts and memorabilia, and some alumni have never given up on their quest to have the mascot reinstated.
U of I officials say they understand the Chief’s place in school history… but insist the symbol will not be officially reinstated.