“Project SPEAK Panel” on 3 Volume 114, Issue 3
the
VISTA “The Student Voice Since 1903”
Follow the Vista: UCentralMedia.com vistanews1903 @TheVista1903 thevista1903 The Vista Monday, Jan. 30, 2017
Resolution Could Change Land Run Mural’s Future
A mural of the Oklahoma land run of 1889 was painted on the side of the Communications building at UCO in 1994 by Dr. Bob Palmer and Donna Sandager. A group of students at UCO have recently demanded the removal of the mural, because it doesn’t depict Native Americans. (Ryan Naeve / The Vista)
Jessica Phillips
@ TheJessPhillips Contributing Writer
An open forum was held last week to discuss the future of the Land Run mural that is painted on the Communications building. No decision has been made, but the Faculty Senate is working toward a resolution. Students and faculty members spoke to express their feelings on the mural and to share ideas of what could be done to make it more inclusive of Native American history and culture. Miss Native American UCO Savannah Waters was a member of the panel present at the forum. “The depiction and celebration of the land run is a constant reminder
of a time that was not just unpleasant, but a time of disgust and betrayal to the Native people of Oklahoma,” Waters said. “We [at UCO] are continually breaking barriers and being more progressive. When I think of UCO, I think of inclusion and that was one of the main draws for me to come here.” Several individuals shared their desire to see more diversity and inclusion in the changes made to the mural. Suggestions included inviting students from the art department to use their talents, purchasing a banner to advertise the College of Liberal Arts, incorporating a representation of Native American history or simply adding the words, “We can still do better.” See “Land Run Mural” on 8
UCO Softball Preview
University of Central Oklahoma sophomore Halley Randolph, 17, swings during a game on April 30, 2016. (Provided/ UCO Photo Services). See UCO Softball on 13 for full story and preview