The enthusiasm for Chief Illiniwek evidenced by thousands at the Assembly Hall November 15th was impressive. Even though the University of Illinois administration and the board of trustees nixed future use and appearances, our Chief lives on. What motivated audience members to attend “The Next Dance?” Was it ignorance, intolerance, insensitivity, racism? Absolutely not. Rather than exhibiting negativism, we Chief supporters are positive in our loyal upholding of this historic re-representation of the University of Illinois.

How can the NCAA, a national sports entity, begin to understand our local devotion to the Chief? How can they forbid his appearance, censor the use of his image and in fact terminate his linkage from the past to the present into the future? This drastic demise of our Chief’s tradition is unwanted by thousands of students, alumni and citizens of Illinois. Change, if destructive of the beliefs of a huge number of dedicated individuals is a negative change. It’s a step in the wrong direction.

Much appreciation goes to the leaders responsible for “The Next Dance” event. It was obviously a welcome opportunity for both Chief Illiniwek and his supporters to be acknowledged. A sea of orange November 15th attested to our enthusiasm for the Chief. It is difficult for these leaders to muck through the dissuading efforts of the powers that be, but eventually legality and rationality prevailed.

Long live Chief Illiniwek in our hearts and minds and souls.