1981
Below is a photograph of Jack Davis at work on the new design of the Chief Illini logo. This design would be used as the primary logo for Illinois, printed on merchandise and school infrastructure for many years to come.
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Special "B.A.K.T." Podcast
Below is a photograph of Jack Davis at work on the new design of the Chief Illini logo. This design would be used as the primary logo for Illinois, printed on merchandise and school infrastructure for many years to come.
Anti-chief protestors show up to a student event called "Be a Part From the Start". The Chief was scheduled to make an appearance but never showed up.
Following recent uproar and debate over Chief Illiniwek, it appears that the mascot isn't moving anywhere fast. Perhaps there isn't enough pressure on the Illiois Union Board (IUB), yet.
As the spark of controversy begins to build over Chief Illiniwek, proposals are also underway for potential new mascots. To the left is an anti-chief protestor and spokeswoman for Native Americans for Progress. Proposals at a meeting included Illinois Fighting Wolves.
Here you will see a snapshot of Pro-Chief activists writing and filing nearly 4000 letters intended for U of I trustees in hopes of pursuading them of Pro-Chief Illiniwek.
In light of tension growing about Chief Illiniwek, Security is taking action. Here you can see police officers escorting Chief off the field after a halftime performance as a saftey precaution.
Beyond the university, protestors began moving further out. Protests were seen at the community Urbana High School after an event that was dedicated to deciding positions on the Chief Illiniwek board.
Tensions highten as both sides begin to accumulate more supporters and attention. Protests begin popping up more frequently and in multiple locations.
Despite all the controversy, meetings, and protests, Chief continued his halftime performances for the time being. However, reactions were always mixed. At this point, controversy was heard nationwide.
Following years of heated debate, the controversy began to taint NCAA programs. As a result, the NCAA tightened their boot-straps and decided enough is enough. In 2005, NCAA filed a report stating starting Feburary 2006, any team using "hostile" and "abusive" mascots will not be allowed to play in the tournament, forcing Illinois to succumb to the terms.
Chief Illiniwek performed his last homecoming halftime performance. After this game the Chief (and all related) could no longer represent the University of Illinois.