L.V., Monday, Jan. 26, 2004

(Opinion: strongly anti-Chief)

It is only within the past couple of months that I have realized how blinded I have been to this subject. I started to read the book "Dancing at Halftime" by Carol Spindel when it hit me like a ton of bricks. Not only had I been blind to the mascot issue, but I had been blind to the issue of the use of cultural symbols entirely. I am embarrassed to admit that last year I went to a costume party dressed as a Native American without even considering what my actions conveyed. I realize that while this is different than the use of Chief Illiniwek, it still involves using another culture for your own entertainment. I am deeply sorry for the humiliation that the stupidity of a few can cause to so many and hope that this situation is resolved in a dignified manner. Continue to educate and promote equality. You are working for a great cause.

L.V., via the web.