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ONLINE PETITION AGAINST "CHIEF ILLINIWEK" at:
<http://kola-hq.hypermart.net/actillin.htm>
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[source: NativeNews; Wed, 16 Feb 2000 12:04:07]

http://www.dailysouthtown.com/southtown/dsnews/164nd1.htm

Symbol becomes board issue
Potential members asked their views on Chief Illiniwek
Wednesday, February 16, 2000
 

URBANA, Ill. (AP) - The University of Illinois' Faculty/Student Senate is balking
at recommending two professors to an athletics advisory board until it learns
where they stand on the Chief Illiniwek issue.

The nominations of Matthew B. Wheeler and Donald J. Wuebbles to a faculty
board that advises the athletics department were tabled Monday because
some Senate members wanted time to question the candidates - including
asking them about the university's use of the American Indian chief as its
symbol.

Wuebbles, an alumnus seeking a spot on the athletics board, chuckled when
told his position could become a factor in whether he gets the Senate's
backing.

"I don't think the Chief Illiniwek issue should be a matter that decides whether
you should be on the Athletic Board," Wuebbles said. "That's kind of silly."

In 1998, the Senate voted to endorse the retirement of Chief Illiniwek. Opponents
of the chief have for years criticized university officials for keeping the symbol,
saying it is an outdated and racist caricature.

The school's Board of Trustees has maintained the chief, saying he personifies
the state's tradition and heritage. The trustees now intend to reopen the
discussions about the chief, and plan to announce details about that debate
later this month.

Neither Wheeler nor Wuebbles was at the Senate meeting Monday. Because
they were not available to answer questions, the Senate voted to table the
nominations until they can hear from the men.

"Some of the senators wanted to quiz the nominees," said Senate member
Raymond Leuthold. He said the senators were not specific about what
questions they want to ask, but the chief controversy is very likely one of the
questions senators will pose.

Wuebbles said he is "mostly neutral" on the mascot debate, but understands
the feelings of those who want to keep Chief Illiniwek as a symbol.

The athletic board advises the UI athletics director, but has no binding
decision-making powers.

"I don't think the Athletic Board really has any direct role in that decision,"
Wuebbles said
 

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