University retires 'Chief Illiniwek' performances


The University of Illinois will no longer allow its "Chief Illiniwek" mascot to perform at games after next Wednesday.

The school was set to announce the decision when two students who portray the chief filed suit. The students say the school's board of trustees should not submit to the NCAA's policy on Indian mascots.

In a policy issued in August 2005, the NCAA said the mascot was abusive and hostile to Native Americans. The policy doesn't require the removal of the mascot, but bars the school from hosting postseason games or displaying Indian imagery at the games.

Get the Story:
U. of I. ends Chief Illiniwek's run (The Chicago Tribune 2/16)
pwday
Students Sue Over NCAA Indian Name Ban (AP 2/16)

NCAA Update:
Status of Indian Mascot Policy (April 28, 2006)

NCAA Executive Committee Decision:
Native American Mascot Appeals Decisions (April 28, 2006)

NCAA Policy on Indian Mascots:
NCAA Executive Committee Issues Guidelines for Use of Native American Mascots at Championship Events (August 5, 2005)

Relevant Links:
Chief Illiniwek, University of Illinois - http://www.uiuc.edu/dialogue/index.html
Retire the Chief - http://www.retirethechief.org

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