Board of Regents Approve University’s Discontinuation of Zia Symbol Eastern New Mexico University Board of Regents voted for the University to discontinue its usage of the Zia Sun Symbol and the name “Zias” for the women’s athletic teams at their April 24 meeting. Student Senate, Professional Senate, Faculty Senate, Professional Support Senate and the Alumni Association each passed resolutions supporting discontinuation. The University’s student body voted 67 percent to 33 percent for discontinuation as well. The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs’ August 30, 2014 Report to the Indian Affairs Committee of the New Mexico Legislature indicated that while there are no legal restrictions to usage of the symbol, organizations should thoroughly consider the ethical, financial and “cultural” implications of such usage. The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) passed Resolution #ANC14-025 at their June 8, 2014 meeting. According to the resolution, NCAI “…was established in 1944 and is the oldest and
largest national organization of American Indian and Alaska Native tribal governments…” The resolution traces the history of the Zia Sun Symbol as a sacred symbol used during religious ceremonies by the Pueblo of Zia to the symbol’s widespread adoption during the 20th and 21st century by various organizations. The NCAI resolution also recognizes the Pueblo of Zia as the cultural custodian to the Zia Sun Symbol and expresses concern “…that the unauthorized, widespread and commercial use of the Zia Sun Symbol cheapens its religious and cultural meanings and disregards its origins.” ENMU Board of Regents’ decision to discontinue usage of the Zia Sun Symbol means that the University will have and use one mascot similar to other institutions transitioning to one mascot
across the nation. As a result, ENMU solidified licensing the Greyhound trademark. The University entered into a trademark and licensing agreement with Learfield Licensing Partners (LLP) at the beginning of 2015. LLP represents seven of the nine Lone Star Conference Schools (LSC). Partnering with LLP provides ENMU with the opportunity to strengthen its image by developing branding standards for off-campus vendors and on-campus constituents to follow. Importantly, the licensing gives the University legal authority over the use of the Greyhound trademark. The move also fortifies ENMU’s 81-year commitment to providing excellent stewardship of University resources.
Green & Silver | August 2015
19
