For those of you who have not noticed, there is a new student publication on campus. While I applaud the fact that this newspaper offers an alternate view through which students can express a more diverse body of viewpoints and ideas, I am very disappointed in its choice of title: "The Warrior."

The Warrior nickname represents Marquette's rich athletic tradition to many students and alumni, and indeed, I used to be a supporter of the nickname. What these people fail to realize, though, is that the Native American imagery actually objectifies an entire race of people.

By objectifying that entire race of people, they are robbed of their humanity. This may sound extreme, but for those of you who believe so, sit down and read Martin Buber's philosophical theories on the subject.

People fail to realize the emotional response that such an objectification of an entire race invokes.

If you think about this in relation to your own experience, it makes sense. If you found out someone who does not know you characterizes you as a jerk or an alcoholic, it would upset you. This holds true for Native Americans, and it robs their multi-faceted, subjective individuality.

The nickname and name of the student publication also perpetuates the racism that has plagued our society for centuries.

I urge the rejection of all Warrior symbolism because of the images and symbols it keeps in our minds. Slavery was abolished more than 100 years ago and we still have certain stereotypical images and ideas about blacks.

All I ask is that we as students at Marquette University take our rightful place at the forefront of human acceptance. The actions of each individual on campus has an effect on this movement. It is up to each individual to pick their path and how they want to see the university act.

Whatever you do, remember that each one of us is influencing the future. Whether that influence is positive or negative ultimately falls on to your shoulders. I ask that we make sure the future falls into the right hands.