"Kevin," 3/31/2005

(Chief opinion: For)

I don't know how you can say that Illiniwek violates anyone's rights. Illiniwek in no way prevents Native American people from treated the same as anyone else. You claim that Illiniwek is a racial stereotype and maybe it is, but maybe it is a way to remember those who go before us. Would you never attend a historical reinactment or memorial? Would you not attend a luau in Hawaii? Are you offended by lederhosen in Germany? History should be remembered, not forgotten. Native Americans are real, we should not hide their culture, especially at a place of learning. We should teach people about the dance, and the headdress, why it was worn, who wore it. Educate people about Native Americans, not hide them like we are ashamed of them. Remember teams use nicknames for pride, not to be ashamed by it.

"Kevin," via the web.