Pueblo seeks compensation for use of sacred symbol

Wednesday, October 31, 2007  

Zia Pueblo seeking compensation from the state of New Mexico for the use of the tribe's sacred symbol.

The zia sun symbol first appeared on the state flag in the 1920s. The design came from a piece of pottery used in religious ceremonies that was smuggled out of the pueblo, an assistant tribal administrator said.

In 1994, the tribe sought $45 million from the state but was unsuccessful. Other efforts sought $1 million for each year the state has used the symbol.

Gov. Bill Richardson (D) supports compensating the tribe and created a task force to study the issue. But the task force hasn't met in more than a year, said Ken Lucero, the tribal administrator.

Meanwhile, the tribe wants people to ask its permission to use the symbol. "Generally we are open and accepting about use of the symbol," Lucero said at a lecture at the University of New Mexico, The Santa Fe New Mexican reported. "We are proud of it."

Get the Story:
Pueblo seeks respect for zia symbol (The Santa Fe New Mexican 10/30)