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Wednesday, February 28, 2007 9:47 PM CST
Letter: Hail to Chief and to Hell with the NCAA



Last night, I watched “Dancing With Wolves,” one of my favorite movies. It seems ironic that Chief Illiniwek danced his last dance at the University of Illinois the same night as I watched the movie.

It is truly a time for mourning. The Chief has been a symbol of perseverance, strength, and loyalty for decades, and stands as a tribute to the American Indian in his finest tradition. The Chief states, silently, but eloquently, that although we may be defeated, we will not be vanquished. There’s a difference.

I abhor the word “mascot” when it comes to the Chief. He is truly a symbol of what we should respect as Americans, regardless of race, creed or color. I pray that we are never asked to salute an acorn or a tree twig prancing along the sidelines as a politically correct icon.

The American Indian did not win a victory with this decision; he suffered yet another defeat. Those few American Indian protesters who were highlighted in this ignoble quest were influenced by close-minded people who demand adherence to their unrealistic perception of equality. There will be an emptiness now, and then regret.

I truly hope that this missive is not answered with indignant reprisals. It is simply my way of saying that I revere the American Indian, and racism is not the issue. Hail to the Chief. And to Hell with the NCAA.


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kay wrote on Apr 10, 2007 9:27 AM:

" maybe you'll think different when you find out ur 18 year old daughter is infected with the cancerous virus. "

What wrote on Apr 16, 2007 5:02 PM:

" What is Kay talking about? Aren't we glad John isn't here anymore, dragging us down??? YAY! "

 


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