University of Illinois bans 'war chant' during sporting events - Chicago Tribune

26.8.17

University of Illinois bans 'war chant' during sporting events - Chicago Tribune: Illinois has faced decades of criticism for its use of Native American imagery in sports.

The university’s board of trustees banned the Chief Illiniwek mascot in 2007, two years after an NCAA decision barring teams that use potentially offensive Native American imagery from hosting postseason play.

A group of former Chief portrayers and current students determined to maintain the tradition continue to wear a headdress, stereotypical Native American clothing and “war paint” on their faces at sporting events, although the university does not endorse this group.

Illinois said it has no plans to end the “Three-in-One” fight song that has been played since the early 1900s. When it is played at basketball games, some students cross their arms and bow their heads in another act of stereotypical Native American appropriation. Students also wear shirts, not sold by the university, that feature feathers or say, “Bring back the Chief.”