Friday’s column, “The United States in 2204,” spreads misinformation about American Indians. General education, it appears, is failing students who attend the flagship university in the state of Illinois.

Much like the policy adopted by the Board of Trustees in Springfield on Sept. 9, “The United States in 2204” displays symptoms of an abnormality – a cultural pathology that screams out for immediate intervention. According to its author:

n American Indians who protest the desecration of their holy places are “hypersensitive.” Sacrilege is re-packaged as “a beautiful piece of artwork.”

n Without cheerleaders such as Chief Illiniwek and other so-called “American Indian” mascots, real American Indians will be erased from memory – presumably even our own.

n All American Indians fought wars against the United States and, thus, were “put on reservations.”

In the past, all American Indians wore feathers and lived in wigwams or teepees. American Indians should be grateful that white folks remember this.

n Giving or taking away names (such as Illini or Illinois) is acceptable regardless of the confused ethics of this odd practice of giving and taking.

Many readers probably accept degrees of truth in “The United States in 2204.” It’s the sad reality of a campus where a mascot/”symbol” of white, racial hegemony defames American Indian nations and people.

What is to be done? Thoroughly fund American Indian studies. Hire American Indian professors. Hold campus-wide events that help adults move forward, away from their childhood fantasies and the “American Indians” of their imaginations. Add graduation requirements to general education. Retire the cheerleader and team name.

David Anthony Tyeeme Clark

University employee