We are well into 2014 and we still do not have a mascot. But what I find most disturbing is not that we still lack a symbol of school spirit, but that discussion on the matter has virtually come to a halt. There should be as much discussion as possible until we come to a consensus on a mascot.

I have not had contact with any member of USG, so I do not know if any discussion is going on there. However, I do know that among the general population, talks about the mascot situation have ceased to exist. This is unacceptable. I find it very embarrassing when I have to tell my friends from other schools that my school does not have an official mascot. Yes, we are the Pioneers, but what do I tell them is the symbol of a Pioneer?

I would like to say that our symbol is Boone. I have made this argument in two other articles (one last Jan. and another one last May), so I will not spend time here on why I believe this; rather, I am saying this in hopes of re-energizing the conversation. Despite whether you agree with me or not, each of us has a responsibility in voicing our opinions about the future of DU. The mascot, either Boone or something new, will be the face of this university in the future and that is something to take seriously.

Only through dialogue will we be able to shape the next symbol of what it means to be a Pioneer. Previous attempts to come up with a new mascot have failed. This university spent thousands of dollars on developing new ideas for mascots only for the student body to ultimately reject the ideas. I would like to mention here that Boone was not a part of the choices offered to the students. I can only wonder what the outcome would have been if Boone had been a choice.

Regardless, I see the failed attempts as a lack of communication. I do not think the student body provided a coherent voice and thus the decision-makers had difficulty responding adequately. Ultimately, this is why we are still left without a mascot. My hopes are that by reigniting the discussion we can have a much better dialogue this time around and actually come up with a solution. And this responsibility is on each and every one of us.

We need to speak openly, candidly and respectfully about our options. Stand firm with what you want; don’t be afraid to support the mascot that you want to represent you. The administration and USG will respond to the will of the students. If we can redevelop a conversation among the students, then I believe that we will continue down the path of finding a mascot. I am hoping this article is the first step.