Monologues are an essential tool for actors and performers to showcase their skills and talent. They provide a platform to express emotions, convey character depth, and captivate audiences. When creating a monologue, it is crucial to select a piece that resonates with your own experiences, interests, and strengths as a performer. It is also essential to understand the purpose of a monologue. A monologue serves as a window into a character's thoughts, feelings, and motivations. It should engage the audience by telling a story, sharing insights, or revealing a character's inner world.

The Changing Faces of Sport Mascots

Many renowned and minor teams in various different sports have changed their mascots due to stereotypes, racism, community acceptance, and a variety of protests. The National Football League , high schools, colleges, and more sports organizations have faced this hardship.

For example, the National Collegiate Athletic Association enforced a rule on no use of hostile or abusive mascots. Two examples could be the Washington Commanders and University of Illinois mascot, Chief Illiniwek .These teams have had to toil to keep their mascots or even change them to a completely new and different mascot. When changing a mascot, you have to re-brand. Organizations have to get new labeled signs, gear, uniforms, field, and more. This causes organizations to lose an exponential amount of money that could be used to help fund the sport and the team.

When should it be okay to change a mascot, and when is it all right to keep it the same as it was? Culture. Culture is a word used to describe values, religions, beliefs, social groups, lifestyles, or even a way of life. If the mascot for a specific sport or school represents that area’s past or supports its culture, why should we change it? However, if a mascot does not have a purpose, is not beneficial, and is offending, change it.

In 2022 The Native American Guidelines Association (NAGA) sued the Washington football franchise to change its name from the Washington Redskins to the Washington Commanders. This NFL team lost its title of the Washington Redskins in 2020 and was widely known as the Washington Football Team for two years before gaining the name and new mascot of the Washington Commanders in February 2022. A press report answering the question of why did the Washington franchise change its mascot from the Redskins to the Commanders stated, “Pressure from sponsors and decades of criticism that they are offensive to Native Americans”” Group sues Washington Commanders over name change. People believed that there was no reason behind the mascot and it was truly just offensive.

But, is there a reason behind the Redskins, or is it just a mascot with no explanation? The lawsuit going against the Washington franchise mentioned “The Washington Commanders are the only team in the National Football League (NFL) to honor an actual Native American.” Group sues Washington Commanders over name change. This team used its mascot, the Redskins, to show support for the Native Americans and honor the spirit that goes along with the Native American culture. Why should you sue a team and make them change their mascot when there is a purpose behind this NFL team’s mascot? Some people viewed this mascot as inspiring and honoring to the Native American culture. The Change.org Petition states, “ The name “Redskins” carries deep cultural, historical, and emotional significance, honoring the bravery, resilience, and warrior spirit associated with Native American culture. It was never intended as a derogatory or offensive term but as a symbol of respect and admiration. Changing the name abruptly disregards the positive legacy that the Redskins name has built over the years and disorients the passionate fans who have invested their emotions, time, and unwavering support in the team.” Group sues Washington Commanders over name change. The Washington Redskins had a valid and inspiring reason as to why they should be the Redskins. To counter argue, some could see how the Redskins would be offensive and how the mascot is disrespectful to one’s culture. Despite this, the Washington football team used the Redskins to honor and support the culture and had no intent to offend.

On the other hand, some mascots have no meaning in regards to an area’s history or culture. They have no reasoning or purpose in making them an important mascot. They are useless. The University of Illinois just recently proposed their new mascot, the Kingfisher, as their new mascot in July 2023. Before that, The University of Illinois mascot was Chief Illiniwek (mascot for 81 years). Chief Illiniwek was usually portrayed by a white student dressed up in clothing that is used as a symbol of the Sioux nation. This was supposed to be a Native Symbol, but this mascot had no reason or purpose. It did not have anything to do with the culture of the college, nor was it beneficial. All it did was make people mad and bring the school controversy. The University of Illinois retired its mascot, Chief Illiniwek, in 2007 after 81 years of pressure from the NCAA and protests by Native Americans. Nothing is wrong with wanting and fighting to change a school or sports team mascot if it is not beneficial or serves a purpose. People fought and argued to eliminate Chief Illiniwek as a mascot, stating “ it must be banned in the name of tolerance and respect for multicultural diversity.” But, some also complemented and fought to keep Chief Illiniwek as their mascot. These people see Chief Illiniwek as an honor and support to their heritage. Controversy of Chief Illiniwek.

People have many different viewpoints, stereotypes, and opinions on a solid controversial topic like this one. Changing mascots due to racism, disrespect, stereotypes, and lifestyles. Culture. Culture should be honored; culture should have support. In an appropriate way. Change a school or sports team mascot when needed. If it holds no purpose, support, or honor, and if it offends people with stereotypes, change it. Keep a mascot when necessary. If it supports, benefits, holds a vital purpose and holds value to the culture of where the mascot originated from, keep it. Everyone has different viewpoints, and not all stereotypes will end. Therefore, there will never be a clear answer or perfect mascot that will make everyone satisfied. But what is best for the school or sports team? What is the culture behind it? What mascot will be next, and if a change is necessary, what will be a proper replacement?

Illinois “Block I Logo” College Mascot

This is it. The iconic Block I Logo that ignites school spirit in every Fighting Illini fan. This legendary cast stone statue captures the strength and glory of our beloved mascot in striking detail. As durable as the will to win that fuels our teams to victory, this powerful piece will stand undaunted through the ages, a monument to the unstoppable force that is the Orange and Blue. Let its bold image instill pride on your lawn or in your home. Illinois through and through, this statue marks you as true champions in an elite brotherhood of those brave enough to bleed Orange and Blue. With the indomitable Block I at your side, you’ll feel the fight song stirring in your soul every time you gaze upon it. Show them all where your loyalty lies – with the relentless spirit of the Orange and Blue, winners on the field and in life. This is Illinois.

Size: 6" F-B Material: Crafted from resilient cast stone, with color finishes that withstand the test of time and the elements. Lead Time to Ship: 6-8 weeks includes production and curing time. NOTE: To request a quotation and discuss the prices , select "Request a Quote", below, and complete checkout. You will be contacted to discuss this when the freight rate is determined, usually within 2 business days. No payment is needed at this time. To purchase parts or if you have questions, please call Donna, our Gardecor Outdoor Decor specialist at 1-855-222-1001 or email her here.

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It should engage the audience by telling a story, sharing insights, or revealing a character's inner world. A well-crafted monologue should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, with a compelling narrative arc that keeps the audience invested. To create an effective monologue, start by selecting material that speaks to you.

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This could be a monologue from a play, a film, or even an original piece written by yourself or someone else. It is essential to choose material that resonates with your personal experiences or challenges you to explore new perspectives. Once you have chosen the material, take the time to analyze and understand the character's journey. What is their objective? What do they want to achieve throughout the monologue? How do they change or evolve? These questions will help you bring depth and nuance to your performance. Next, consider the structure of your monologue. A well-structured monologue should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. The beginning sets the scene, introduces the character, and establishes the stakes. The middle develops the conflict or tension, allowing the character to confront obstacles and face challenges. The end provides resolution or closure, leaving the audience with a sense of catharsis or understanding. As you rehearse your monologue, pay attention to the emotional journey of the character. Explore different techniques to convey their emotions effectively, such as varying your vocal tone, incorporating physical gestures, or utilizing pauses to create tension. Remember to stay true to the character's intentions and motivations, as this will help create an authentic and compelling performance. Lastly, perform your monologue for others and seek feedback. Receiving constructive criticism from peers, mentors, or directors can be invaluable in refining your performance. Take note of areas where you can improve, such as clarity of delivery, timing, or emotional depth. In conclusion, creating a monologue requires careful selection of material, understanding of the character, attention to structure, exploration of emotions, and feedback from others. By investing time and effort into honing your monologue, you can create a captivating and impactful performance that showcases your talent and skill as an actor or performer..

Reviews for "The Role of the UIUC Mascot in Promoting School Spirit and Pride"

1. Jane - 1 star

I was completely disappointed with the new UIUC mascot for 2023. The design of the mascot is poorly executed and looks more like a creepy cartoon character than a symbol of the university. The bright yellow color is also off-putting and doesn't represent the school's colors accurately. Overall, I think the university could have done much better in choosing a mascot that represents the spirit and values of UIUC.

2. Michael - 2 stars

While I appreciate the effort put into creating a new mascot for UIUC, I can't say I'm a fan of the chosen design. The mascot looks generic and lacks originality. It doesn't embody the rich history and traditions of the university. Additionally, the decision to use a translucent material for the mascot's head is bizarre, making it look more like a strange alien creature than a representative of UIUC. I believe there were better options available and the university missed a chance to create a memorable mascot.

3. Sarah - 2 stars

I must admit, I was expecting something more exciting and unique for UIUC's new mascot. The mascot lacks personality and doesn't have any distinct features that make it stand out. It seems like a hastily put together design, lacking attention to detail. The choice of a robotic-like creature doesn't resonate with the school's identity and fails to inspire school spirit. Overall, I believe UIUC missed an opportunity to create a mascot that truly reflects the university's values and history.

The Evolution of UIUC Mascot: From Origins to Modern Times