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APRIL 6, 2001

A federal judge on Thursday ruled the University of Illinois can't prevent foes of its controversial mascot Chief Illiniwek from trying to dissuade potential athletes from attending the school.

US Judge Michael Mihm today will issue a temporary restraining order against the school for its Illiniwek policy. Mihm said the policy might violate free speech and will rule on a permanent injunction at a later date.

The ruling is a victory for mascot foes who feel it is their right to talk to recruits about the mascot. University Chancellor Michael Aiken had sent out an campuswide e-mail in March, warning faculty and students they shouldn't talk to recruits for fear of violating NCAA rules.

Get the Story:
U. of I. can't stifle anti-Illiniwek talk (The Chicago Tribune 4/6)

Relevant Links:
Chief Illiniwek, University of Illinois - http://www.uiuc.edu/dialogue/index.html
Save the Chief, Pro Mascot Site - http://www.savethechief.com