Why are some American Indian people upset by the “Chief Illiniwek” mascot of the “Fighting Illini” sports teams?
There are three main reasons. First, the Illini mascot wears Sioux clothes and accessories, which are different from actual Illini traditions. So the mascot is misrepresenting Native American culture. Second, many Native Americans think Chief Illiniwek is disrespectful of their religion because he mimics certain Indian religious gestures. Just like anyone else, Native Americans are sensitive about their religious beliefs. And third, many people think it is inappropriate to use a racial costume at all. Some Native Americans feel hurt and embarrassed when a white person dresses up as an Indian chief, just as some African-Americans feel hurt and embarrassed when a white person dresses up in blackface. Can you recommend a good book for me to read? If you want to know more about Illini culture and history, two good sources for kids are Illinois Native Peoples and The Illinois Confederacy. Older readers may find useful information in the text Indian Villages of the Illinois Country. You can
