Save The Chief
The Chief
A symbol of honor and tradition at the University
of Illinois, Chief Illiniwek came into being through the creativity of
Ray Dvorak , Assistant Director of Bands, and Lester Leutwiler, a student
with a keen interest in Native American History. In 1926, Leutwiler
and fellow Eagle Scout Ralph Hubbard combined their knowledge of
Indian lore and created "The Chief." On October 30, 1926, Chief
Illiniwek made his first appearance at Memorial Stadium. He thrilled
the crowd during half-time of the football game with his authentic Indian
dance. The Chief was an instant success and his performances became
a regular event. Over the years, the Chief has provided students and alumni
with a sense of belonging and an overwhelming feeling of pride for the
University and the ability to call themselves "Illini." Most are
still proud to honor the tradition that is the Chief.
To learn more about past Chiefs go
to: Hall
of Chiefs
His History
The term "Illiniwek" was first used by football
coach Bob Zuppke. He was fascinated by Illini culture and liked that
the term "Illiniwek" referred to the complete human being: body,
intellect, and spirit. Shortly after, the University adopted the
name Illiniwek for its mascot. In 1929, it was decided that a proper
war suit be made for the Chief. The colorful regalia of the Sioux
was chosen and an old Indian woman was called in to sew it. The costume
changed four or five times over the years and in September of 1982, the
present regalia was given to the University. The current costume
was sewed by the wife of Frank Fools Crow, the elderly chief of the Ogala
Sioux tribe of South Dakota. Fools Crow presented the costume to
the university at half-time of a football game. The costume has remained
intact except for the original eagle feathers in the headdress, which were
returned to the Ogala tribe and replaced with turkey feathers died to appear
as eagle feathers.
The Tradition
While there are some who view the Chief as disrespectful,
it is also important to view him as a link to our past. While other
schools' mascots are merely caricatures, Illiniwek portrays Indians in
a respectable way, with authentic dress and dance. In short, many
believe this is how Indians would want to be portrayed. Illiniwek
is also viewed as one of the most outstanding traditions in the land, one
that means no disrespect. Many organizations have taken it upon themselves
to "Save the Chief." The Honor the Chief Society was founded in 2001
to help people gain a better understanding of this academic tradition.
They provide answers to many of the controversial issues surrounding the
past, present, and future of Chief Illiniwek and his tradition.
For questions and answers about the tradition
of the Chief, click: FAQ:
The Tradition
What He Stands For
The tradition of Chief Illiniwek is a link to
the past. He is filled with qualities that a person of any background
can relate to: goodness, strength, bravery, truthfulness, courage,
and dignity.
The Controversy
Chief Illiniwek has been hailed as a symbol
of the University since 1926. But while many cheer him during half-time,
others look upon him with disgust, viewing him as a mockery of Native American
traditions. Not only does he degrade Indians, but he portrays whites
as ignorant to tribal cultures. The University has felt the controversy
of the Chief for many years and in 1989, the American Indian Movement began
anti-Chief rallies. As a result to appease the AIM, the university
drastically reduced the Chief's appearances. He has been removed
from university letterhead and now appears only at half-time of football
games, men's basketball games, and women's volleyball games.
Anti-Chief rallies have forced the university to seriously consider the
future of Illiniwek.
What Can Be Done?
In 2001, the Honor the Chief Society was founded.
The main goals and objectives of this organization are to share the Chief's
history so people can gain a better understanding of his heritage and this
academic tradition. The Society has found that education on the history
of Native American people and the portrayal of Chief Illiniwek allows
people to better understand the difference between an athletic mascot and
traditional history. To receive information regarding this society
click: Membership
Updates
On May 1, 2002, the Illinois Student Government
passed a resolution to retire the Chief. An article by Kristin Clifford
and MaryAnne Pysson appeared in the May 2, 2002 edition of the Daily Illini.
To read this article click: Retirement
of the Chief
Ann Daum
Illinois College
Jacksonville, IL 62650
Date Last Revised: May 7, 2002