Illinois appeals NCAA ruling again
January 31st, 2006The University of Illinois has filed a second appeal with the NCAA, which previously ruled that the university must stop using Chief Illiniwek as a mascot and logo because it’s offensive to Native Americans.
The latest appeal, to the same committee that approved the original policy, challenges the NCAA’s power to impose it, the school said.
“This appeal is about the institutional autonomy of NCAA member schools,” the university told the executive committee. “It is about flawed rules and process.”
I think everyone knows where I stand on this issue. (Hint: I’m a Braves fan).
If I was a Native American, I think I’d be proud to have a college or pro team named after me. How often does that happen?
Heck, if someone named a team the Richmond Hill Rednecks, I’d say, “Rock on!”
From what I hear, they had trouble even finding any members of the Illini tribe. Once they found them, the groups couldn’t agree on a policy toward the university. Since they couldn’t agree, the NCAA ruling stands. Wouldn’t it be interesting if the NCAA forbade Christian imagery in college sports! I’m not holding my breath.
Living just 15 miles from the University of Illinois at Urbana/Champaign, I hear of all this controversy ad nauseum.
Hardly a day goes by without more media coverage, mostly local.
For a different take on this whole issue, visit Honorthechief.org
Being a white caucasian, I am not considered politically correct enough to comment on this. My view is, resolve it and move on.
But please remember, this is not about the nickname “Fighting Illini.” It is SOLELY about the symbol of Chief Illiniwek. I personally think that the name “Redskins” is more offensive than the symbol of the Chief. I have attended Illini games, and the Chief is represented in a reverent and respectful way.
Here endeth the sermon.