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An open letter to President Kustra and Velma V. Morrison concerning Cesar Chavez Ln.
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Until a few days ago, I thought that this University had done all that it could to promote and foster an environment that tolerates
oppression and harbors hate.
Unfortunately, I was wrong. Upon an anonymous tip, I learned that secret plans were being made by higher ups in the
administration along with Velma Morrison to change a portion of the newly named “Cesar Chavez Lane” to “Velma Morrison Lane.”
I am sure you understand my surprise and disappointment.
Last year, a group of highly motivated students, staff, faculty and community members worked hard to change the private lane known as “Campus Lane” to “Cesar Chavez Lane” for the purpose of honoring a man who changed the world for the better. Once approved, an unveiling of the new street name was held and largely attended.
Now, less than one year after the change, steps have been taken to change a portion of this road touching the Morrison Center to be called “Velma Morrison Lane.”
Why?
The document written by James Maguire says, “to honor one of the University’s most generous donors and long-time Bronco
supporter.” Was it not enough to honor her by naming an entire building after her?
In attempts to follow this paper trail I learned that a complaint was filed by a community member who did not see a purpose to the renaming to Cesar Chavez Lane that was read by both the president of the university and by Morrison herself.
Days later, Morrison filed a complaint directly with Kustra and tail-between-legs, he quickly asked that someone file a name change request. Calls to the Morrison Center have revealed that the name change has already been made official.
Why was this kept so secret?
Why didn’t the persons involved in the original name change get a chance to debate this renaming?
Why weren’t we told?
The answers to these questions reveal a much harsher truth; it’s not the students of this university that matter, it’s the money.
It can be assumed with great confidence that Morrison threatened Kustra with monetary means so that the street name would be changed without opposition. Kustra then choose to involve only a few people in this process, hoping that we wouldn’t catch wind of their deceit. In Maguire’s document requesting the name change he writes, “Dr. Kustra has asked that I expedite the formalization of the renaming to appropriately honor Ms. Morrison.” If this renaming was truly about honoring Ms. Morrison, why was it kept secret?
Why was there no unveiling ceremony? Why hasn’t anyone even heard of this?
Oddly enough, the paperwork filed to change the street name was dated 3-23-07, the last day of Cesar Chavez week, coincidence?
We know better.
Calls and e-mails to the office of the president and to the Morrison Center have unfortunately been ignored.
This situation is a clear demonstration of the classism that exists on this campus.
If it doesn’t shout “money” or “Fiesta Bowl” the president refuses to care or become involved.
Several attempts to meet with the president over this and other matters have also been ignored.
It is time that we shed light (a giant, blinding spotlight) on these issues and the way they are handled by this administration.
This clandestine approach to campus politics is unacceptable and this administration needs to be held accountable for their
dishonest actions.
Ms. Morrison should also be held accountable for choosing to dodge her issue with the street name by using her clout on this university to have it swept under the rug. It is time to take responsibility for your actions.
Kate Neal is a student at Boise State.
KATE NEAL
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