Editor’s Note: This letter is directed at Daily Lobo Editor-in-chief Chris Quintana.
Editor,
I do not particularly like politics, because I feel it is a man-made system to control man. I do vote because I like expressing my ideas, much like an artist with an empty canvas. I feel, although you write on politics of this campus, you too have become a disguised politician, controlling articles that accuse, rather than report.
Not only have your opinions affected the articles of the Daily Lobo, but also the writers themselves. I see more accusation than facts, more one-viewed opinions than reports and more doubt than hope.
Everyone who keeps up with the Daily Lobo knows that there is an underlying feud with you and Jamie (sic) Roybal. You have expressed these opinions in articles, cartoons and editorials. To me, that is a problem. Not because of anything to do with being in favor or against anyone, but because you are abusing your power to control students’ thoughts.
A newspaper should not be biased, in my opinion. It should be like art, in that we who read the newspaper should form our own opinion about the issues going on in our community. That is how ideas are formed. That is creativity and that is progress.
With last Friday’s front-page article, I could tell by the picture and headline, it was more accusing Roybal than reporting on the amendment itself or student voting. You’ve expressed such doubts about Roybal’s presidency from the veto to the bike program. I understand the money issue about the bike program. I am neither pro nor con with the bike program, but I like to look at different sides of an issue. I have found your opinions logical.
But when you weren’t editor-in-chief, there were articles about environmental issues and alternative transportation. Bikes fit both these categories. I believe Albuquerque is a great city, with its southwestern style, art, food and amazing people. I think the bike program would allow UNM students who do not have a bike to see the beauty of Albuquerque. Much like the bus-sticker program, this bike program would benefit students and Albuquerque.
Some students do not have a bike and don’t know the feeling of New Mexico air blowing in their face, nor the feeling of flying when it is near sunset. Students will be able to venture and explore Albuquerque more. Have you considered these situations that would be enjoyable for any UNM student?
Also, I don’t need to know who’s dating who. To use Jamie (sic) Roybal’s relationship against her was immature. Do not try to scar her career with her relationship and do not try to make people think that her relationship with Láz Cárdenas was a bad thing. Do not be like certain people in this world who look poorly on someone who has feelings for someone else.
I think rather than accuse and blame, the Daily Lobo needs to focus more on students and what they are doing to improve their community. Your leadership shows every time in the Daily Lobo with words that people read. Let it be words that do not bring this University down.
Remember what Albus Dumbledore said in last year’s Harry Potter film, “Words are, in my not-so-humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic. Capable of both inflicting injury, and remedying it.”
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I feel if you were to take that same passion you have against Jamie (sic) Roybal and apply it to the subjects I have said above, the Daily Lobo would become a successful newspaper. It would better improve the student body and would better connect us as UNM students.
Zachary Emerson
UNM student
