"Charles B. Larson," 2/22/2006

(Chief opinion: VeryFor)

First, thank you for a truly magnificant up-date of the entire website. It's very well done. Just a couple observations:

I have not seen any compelling remarks to modify my thought that the Chief is indeed a symbol. The use of the word "mascot" is clearly intended to inflame and avoid intellectual dialog. Second, I have seen no reasonable comments to address the FACT....that States, Cities, Bridges, Mountains, Rivers, Streams, Schools, streets, landmarks, and many, many other objects in the US are named after native Americans. I would guess in every case, it was done to honor the native Americans. In no case, do I believe there was any negative intent. So, why now, have the politically correct made this an issue.

And, who would not be proud to have their name a symbol of a University as great as the U of I

And, lastly, no one chooses to take on the FACT that native Americans have been, in so many instances, less than steller custodians of their heritage.....I cite the broken beer botles that are strewn over thousands of acres in the Navajo Nation. I cite the facilities now all over the nation where the white man is beckoned to drink, and carouse and GAMBLE, on sacred indian land...........and I direct attention to the numerous incidents where sacred indian dress and dances are prostituted to the whiteman's whompom ($$$$$)

If we're going to be honest in our exploration of doing "the right thing", I believe these matters should be explored without name calling.

As I stated in a recent letter to the U of I Board, who has acted in a very responsible manner, this issue (political correctness) is a passing fad, and will go away when the purveyors of such thoughts grow up.....just like panty raids.

"Charles B. Larson," via the web.