<P> Chief Illiniwek was the mascot (often referred to by supporters as the "symbol") of the University of Illinois at Urbana--Champaign (UIUC), associated with the University's intercollegiate athletic programs, from 1926 to February 21, 2007 . Chief Illiniwek was portrayed by a student to represent the Illiniwek, the state's namesake, although the regalia worn was from the Sioux . The student portraying Chief Illiniwek performed during halftime of Illinois football and basketball games, as well as during women's volleyball matches . </P> <P> For more than two decades, Chief Illiniwek has been the center of a controversy between fans and alumni who view "the Chief" as part of UIUC tradition; while Native American individuals and organization, social scientists, and educators view such mascots as cultural appropriation of indigenous images and rituals, and perpetuating stereotypes about American Indian peoples . In 2005, Chief Illiniwek was one of 19 mascots cited as "hostile or abusive" by the NCAA in a policy that banned schools from full participation in postseason activities as long as they continued to use such mascots . </P> <P> The University of Illinois retired Chief Illiniwek in 2007, with his last official performance on February 21, 2007 . However, the controversy has continued because UIUC has not selected a replacement, while an unofficial "Chief" continues to appear at games and other events . </P> <P> Chief Illiniwek and the Chief Illiniwek logo--a stylized front view of an American Indian face and headdress--are trademarks of the University of Illinois . Licensed use of the logo by the university has been increasingly restrictive as a result of the ongoing controversy . Chief Illiniwek is not based on an actual American Indian chief, nor did a historical figure with this name ever exist . </P>

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