I have hesitated to respond to the Chief Illiniwek controversery because
never once have I seen information from any of the anti-Chief Illiniwek
e-mail entries that indicates that they have given the slightest courtesy to
the descendents of the Illini People, the Miami, Peoria, Wea, Peoria and
Kaskaskia. Woodland tradition dictates that they should make the decision
but today's trend among young people to "take matters in their own hands," I
doubt that they have bothered to ask the elder Chiefs of the Miami and United
Peoria (which includes the Wea, Kaskaskia and Piankasha.)
On the other hand, I personally know that the University of Illinois
administration has contacted the Miami and the United Peoria. They were
brought to the University of Illinois campus and conferred with
administration there. They accepted the explanation offered and gave their
permission for the continued use of Chief Illiniwek.
In addition, Governor Edgar contacted the leaders of the Miami of
Oklahoma, the Miami of Indiana and the United Peoria and asked their feelings
in regard to this matter. Governor Edgar was told that they did not have
problems with Chief Illiniwek and felt that the symbol was being used in an
honorable way.
In my opinion, that is why the legislation approving Chief Illiniwek was
approved. If the other students at the University of Illinois had any
respect for these great chiefs, they would stop what they're doing right now
and begin conferring with Miami Chief Leonard and Peoria Chief Giles in
Oklahoma and Miami Chiefress Siders in Indiana. Perhaps there is information
they do not have which might change their minds but they are wise and
honorable leaders of their people and more respect should be given to their
opinions.
Nick Clark, Chair
Minnetrista Council for Great Lakes
Native American Studies