"UNM Seal: There has been strong interest in examining the historic
representations that have been built into the UNM Seal for more than a generation. In 2016, it was determined that while the mark was under review, an interim seal would be used for all official representation. After a considerable amount of dialogue, research and input from over 8000 participants in our communities statewide and nationally, a comprehensive and diverse committee presented art submissions to the Regents’ Academic Student Affairs
and Research (ASAR) Committee this past April 30. The ASAR committee requested some modifications to the artwork, which will be returned for further consideration at its next meeting, likely to take place in August, after which it will go to the full Board for final approval."
"Adams Mural in Zimmerman Library: The recent intellectual discourse regarding the mural was conducted with considerable thought and insight, with many vested groups, and incorporated lectures, entire course sections, and meetings with interested constituents. This engagement led to a proposed solution involving a curtain veil concept, which then evolved to an enhanced technical display that allows for complete obstruction of view while still permitting the murals to be accessed for educational purposes. The transition of leadership and
the viability of the selected technology unquestionably delayed the project, but this issue continues to be a priority for the University. We remain committed to covering the murals before Fall classes begin. Given the historical designation of Zimmerman Library, this process is strictly regulated by the New Mexico Historic Preservation Division, and we will continue to work diligently to comply with their requirements to implement changes."
Named Buildings: This week, the Oñate Hall building sign was removed due to vandalism. Unlike the Adams mural in Zimmerman, the University has not entered into an extensive process to address controversial building names.
However, the University administration understands the need to address this important issue. All naming requests currently are reviewed by the Committee on Naming Facilities, Spaces, Endowments, and Programs, in accordance with
existing guidelines and procedures. Since the naming of facilities has a long-term
impact on the University, the current approval process is designed to ensure such actions are in the best interest of the institution. We will strive for an inclusive process and I have requested a review of the existing policy for naming buildings and other facilities."
UNM announced its "Anti-Racism Action Plan" for 2021.
The Center for Teaching and Learning created a list of "Anti-Racism Efforts," including diversity of hiring practices and microaggressions training.
In 2020, UNM established the CTL Committee for Anti-Racist Education. In its mission statement, its goal is to call out "embedded and pervasive nature of White Supremacy as an institutional practice."