Letter: ASUNM aims for transparency with posting of resolution

Editor,

ASUNM Joint Resolution 6S, as passed by the Associated Students of UNM on March 4, is inherently designed as a statement against hate crimes such as Islamophobia.

In law, a resolution is a written motion adopted by a governing body. The ASUNM Law Book defines a resolution as “an expression of intent or sentiment of the Senate. A Senate resolution does not have the effect of law and may not be used to provide for the establishment of any rule or regulation; nor may it provide for an appropriation; nor may it provide for the establishment of any committees. A Senate resolution is limited to the life of the session of the Senate in which it was passed.”

This government, like many before it, has firmly asserted its position in opposition to hate crimes, or actions resembling such, on all fronts. Actions, by any member of the student body, which are done with the intent to alienate any member of the student body, of which we assume representation of in whole, contradict what we believe to be our core values and the values of UNM, which we proudly call home. The purpose of this resolution, as we have done in the past with other hate crimes, was to address such alienation, and to remind students that we support all students, of all religions, classes, identities, etc.

“The First Amendment [of the U.S. Constitution] serves not only the needs of the polity but also those of the human spirit — a spirit that demands self-expression. Such expression is an integral part of the development of ideas and a sense of identity,” said Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall.

We believe in Freedom of Speech as an essential function at this university. Dialogue is more than welcome and even encouraged. We also believe that in order to have a fair discussion, one must be informed.

I sincerely hope this resolution encourages a healthy discussion at UNM. Remember, we are all one family of Lobos. In the Lobo spirit, we encourage you to reach out to your student government. Remember, it is you whom we represent.

Sincerely,

David T. Ishmael

ASUNM Director of Communications