Chief Illiniwek

Chief Illiniwek is the official symbol or mascot (there is dispute about which is the appropriate label) of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Chief Illiniwek is sometimes referred to as the school's mascot, though, historically, he precedes traditional college sports mascots, and the University does not recognize him as such. Chief Illiniwek and the Chief Illiniwek logo (a stylized Native American face and headdress, viewed from the front) are trademarks of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Related Topics:
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Mascot

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The Chief is portrayed by a student and wears a traditional Titonwan Lakota regalia donated by Chief Frank Fools Crow. The portrayal also includes a dance of unknown origins, possibly adapted from early 20th Century fancy dancing via the Boy Scouts - see History below. The Chief performs only at halftime of major sporting events hosted by the University.

Related Topics:
Titonwan - Lakota - Frank Fools Crow - Fancy dancing - Boy Scouts - History

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The stated intent of the Chief is to celebrate the Native American heritage of the state of Illinois, and he enjoys the support and respect of a majority of Illinois residents and University alumni and students. However, the Chief is also the center of a controversy relating to what many Native Americans and others consider a misappropriation of indigenous culture, an inaccurate portrayal of Illiniwek culture, and the promotion of a general stereotype.

Related Topics:
Controversy - Illiniwek

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