U of I's Mascot

So, before I arrived to the campus, I was doing my research online of the institution. And, I came across a "Mascot Issue" link on their the student affairs website. Not too long ago, they had gotten rid of their mascot, Chief Illiniwek. I never really thought about this nor did I ever realize this, but it's highly offensive to use a Native American as your mascot. It just really hit me hard.
Central Michigan University Chippewas...Washington Redskins...Chicago Blackhawks...And many more!
What's even worse is that they would have a white guy dress up and be Chief Illiniwek at games. They also have student groups against the retirement of the mascot. Alumni are pissed. "It's tradition," blah, blah, blah. Some stores that sell U of I gear are still selling shirts with the chief on it.
Let's be a little bit more inclusive and promote diversity people...

Mascot Issue

On February 21, 2007, the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign retired the Chief Illiniwek as its mascot. The following statements offer a perspective about this issue in hopes that our community can advocate for a more positive and safe campus climate. The Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations, by way of this web page, hopes to respectfully support and uphold the decision of the Board of Trustees, while offering a platform for constructive resolutions to this issue.

Statement from the OIIR Cultural Houses:
"The continued use of Chief Illiniwek is an obstacle to fulfilling our mission of promoting a diverse and welcoming environment that supports full inclusion for all members of the University community. We strive to respect the human dignity of all individuals and communities. Our units seek to provide arenas for the exploration of personal and community identities and opportunities to increase understanding and valuing of differences. Therefore, the retirement of Chief Illiniwek is in the best interest of our community."