What do you think of the University’s decision to not change the University seal, particularly during Native American Heritage Month?
Eric Morgan, senior, criminology
“For them, it could feel like a slap in the face, so to speak, because it is the heritage month, you know. I could see where they’re coming from, where it would be kind of offensive.”
Victor Santos, senior, communication and journalism
“I think it is really offensive, because having that picture of the conquistador, those were the people who came here to take their land and to colonize their culture, not caring about who they were and all the knowledge they have. And that is not fair — it’s highly offensive to all the native community. I think the University should do something about it because we have a lot of Native American students coming to campus and it’s really offensive to them, every time they have to see that.”
Alysia Coriz, sophomore, psychology and Native American studies
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“I think it’s pretty appalling that the seal issue has been going on longer than this year. The fact that it’s November and Native American Heritage Month, it’s pretty sad because I know a majority of the native population here on campus really feels that the seal is very detrimental to our representation here.
So, with the lack of representation on the seal, as well as the representation of historical symbols of oppression, it’s been really hard. I’m not sure where it will go, I know that many organizations are putting in the effort to gain support to change the seal. I just hope that soon the Board (of Regents) as well as President Bob Frank will finally take that into consideration.”
Tiayrra Curtis, senior, business marketing and Native American studies
“It’s very disheartening to have that happen during this month. I feel like we worked so hard to get to this point. We still have to keep going forward and pushing for the seal to change. It’s really challenging to face this adversity during these times (and) during this month, but we’re not going to stop. We are even more motivated to fight for it. Because we feel we need to be represented - not just Native Americans, but all minorities on campus.”
