U. Illinois Will Stop Using ‘War Chant’ at Illini Events
The school already retired Chief Illiniwek.
The University of Illinois has decided to stop using its iconic “War Chant” music at sporting events. From The News-Gazette:
Athletic spokesman Kent Brown confirmed the decision today after several UI students said they were told to stop playing the drum chant at Thursday’s Illini soccer match by a representative of the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics.
“Midway through the first period, a DIA rep came over to tell us it was no longer allowed,” said Sam LeRoy, a member of the Illini Pride’s “Hotshots” student support group. He said they were playing the drum during a corner kick, as they had many times before.
“We were blindsided,” LeRoy said.
Athletic officials hadn’t publicized the decision, which has apparently been in the works for a year or more.
During an appearance on WDWS radio today, Brown said the chant — played for years at Memorial Stadium when football opponents face third-down situations — was not getting the response from fans that the video board does.
“We’ve used it less and less,” he said.
It’s the latest step by the school to eliminate or reduce the use of Native American imagery by the athletic department.
In 2007, the school retired Chief Illiniwek, a controversial symbol portrayed by students who danced during halftime of football and basketball games.
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“In 2007, the school retired Chief Illiniwek, a controversial symbol portrayed by students who danced during halftime of football and basketball games.”
Exactly to whom was Chief Illinwek controversial? Only to morons that feel a need to find third party offense on behalf of others even where no offense exists.
The Chief performed authentic Sioux ceremonial dances in full ceremonial headdress which was donated to the university by the Sioux nation itself. The Sioux nation collaborated with the university to ensure cultural accuracy of the performances.
My alma mater has stooped to a new low again. When will the administration see that Indian dances and music honored our red brothers rather than dishonored them?
Someone tell the All-Blacks to stop doing the haka.
And in 2007, I retired from my annual giving to the College of Engineering. Vote with your wallet.