February 15, 2000:
Resolution in favor of a public tower
WHEREAS, Michigamua has a history of appropriating and desecrating Native American culture at the University of Michigan; and,
Whereas, Michigamua is part of the Tower Societies; and,
Whereas, there is no formal recognition of Native American people or culture within the University; and,
Whereas, American Indians ceded the original land grant to the University in 1817; and,
Whereas, the Administration and not the Michigan Student Assembly currently grant the Tower Societies their exclusive privilege of space; and,
Whereas, this relationship with the Administration extends beyond the jurisdiction of MSA;
THEREFORE, be it resolved, that from this time forward the MSA calls for the Administration to order the Tower Societies subject to the same rights and regulations governing all other student organizations registered by and with the MSA; and,
Be it further resolved, the MSA petitions the Administration to permanently open to the public the space formerly occupied by the Tower Societies within the Michigan Union 5th 6th, and 7th floors; and,
Be it further resolved, the MSA urges the Administration to refurbish the Michigan Union 5th, 6th, and 7th floors to serve the needs of all students as a cultural lounge space, a Native American student resource center, and a commemorative center recognizing contributions of Native Americans to the University of Michigan.
Submitted by Jasmine Abdel-Khalik & Andy Coulouris
Passed in amended form.