Chief Vigil

    Students are keeping the fight over Chief Illiniwek alive. The University retired the Chief after his performance last Wednesday. Tonight, dozens of students met at the quad, in hopes he'll dance again. Students lit candles, and spelled the word "Chief" in the snow. Linking arms, they sang the University's alma mater, talking about the next move is to get the Chief back.
    Students say they want people to show up at the Board of Trustees meeting next month, to voice their opposition against the decision to retire the Chief. They're also looking to get a referendum on the ballot for student elections so students can get their voice heard about the issue. Freshman Anthony Delapaz says the Chief is a sign of respect and courage. He says he will keep on working with supporters to bring the tradition back, "people are always saying let's give up, but i think if you  can fight for the last chance, even if u don't get it, it's worth the last chance."
   Nearby the vigil, was a man protesting. He held a sign that read "Education, not racism." Greg Hetin says people need to care about the feelings of Native Americans, and what the Chief represents. "To say that the Chief in any way educates people in any way about Native Americans reflects profound ignorance, reflects true deep-seeded racism at the university. "
    To Chief supporters they say, the Chief represents Illinois. Some students have created a website at dumpeppley.com. It's asking people to call their senator to vote down the confirmation of Board Chairman Larry Eppley and the newest trustee.
   Originally, the vigil was set to be outside the President's mansion, but he was not home. For safety reasons, they moved the vigil to the quad.