The following is the transcript of a Foellinger balcony narrative from April 14, 2000. It is an unedited excerpt from the original Chief dialogue document.

We honor those that have gone before us. Many laying down their very lives to preserve and thus honor their heritage, in other words, their story. For what is more important to a people than their collective story.

Indeed, traditionally, every culture has held in highest esteem those community members who courageously honored their communal history and self-identify by making the ultimate sacrifice, as well as our elders to ensure that our nation and our story would continue on unchanged.

With that in mind, I find the argument that Chief Illiniwek is honoring or paying tribute to Native Americans absurd. Firstly, it is documented that the acrobatic gyrations performed by the Chief have no basis in traditional dance and is therefore a charade.

Secondly, wearing an eagle headdress considered by many tribes to be sacred while playing Indian, is an affront to those who earned the right to wear an eagle feather.

Lastly, using Chief Illiniwek, which is essentially a caricature of the Native American, as a merchandising gimmick is the ultimate insult. What honor is there in misappropriating a people's identity for a profit.

Part of what makes us all human is that we are all participating in the cooperative community of humanity. Many nations coming together while proudly retaining our individual stories. I appeal to the Board and the University to end the duplicity and stop trying to rob us of our heritage. From the beginning you have hidden behind your intention to honor Native Americans as educators, many look to you to uphold a higher standard. You now have the opportunity to practice what you have preached all these years. Show the rest of the state and parts of the country how you define honor by not using a Native American as your mascot. Thank you.

See the U.I. Dialogue on Chief Illiniwek page for more transcripts and information.