Letter to the editor — June 3

Zia name change should be revisited

The discontinuation of the Zia symbol as the mascot for the Eastern New Mexico University women’s teams has left many Zia supporters disappointed and bewildered.

I wonder why this was deemed necessary, and why it was proposed without asking for more input from the ENMU community or having more convincing arguments.

ENMU is much more than its administration, Board of Regents, faculty, employees, current student body, or the 446 students who voted for the change.

What input was requested from ENMU graduates, Zia supporters, former Zia athletes, local community, and business supporters? I question whether the approval by the Alumni Association accurately reflects the feelings of the majority who care about ENMU.

Several former Zia players have asked why the change was proposed. We had no good answer. I have spoken to no one who supported the change.

I heard that thousands of e-mails were sent regarding the proposed change. Although I am a graduate of ENMU, an Eastern Athletic Club member, and a fan of Zia sports, I did not receive any notification.

There were 446 yes votes from an enrollment of over 5,000.

The Zia Pueblo wants people to first request permission before using the symbol. A Portales News-Tribune report said Zia Pueblos wanted the symbol used respectfully.

ENMU’s use of the Zia symbol was and still is respectful.

New Mexicans have also used it respectfully on the state flag, license plates and elsewhere.

The most likely reason for the name change is the university’s licensing of the Greyhound logo. ENMU hopes to receive up to $10,000 per year under an agreement with a licensing group.

It remains to be seen if that elusive amount will offset the lost revenue from ENMU Zia supporters and sponsors.

I would like to see the decision revisited.

Lynda Moore

Portales