"green chilis roasting" by James Lavin is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 .
Official State Aroma of New Mexico
In March 2023, New Mexico made history by becoming the first state in the United States to adopt an official aroma. The captivating scent of green chile roasting was bestowed with this prestigious title, solidifying its place as a beloved symbol of the state's rich culture and cuisine.
The journey to establishing the state aroma began in the minds of a group of fifth graders from Kristina Campbell’s class at Monte Vista Elementary School in Las Cruces. During a visit from their state senator, William Soules, the students were asked about various state symbols. When the topic of smell arose, one student boldly suggested that the aroma of green chile roasting should be the official state aroma.
The idea sparked a flame of enthusiasm among the students, who eagerly began researching the significance of green chile in New Mexico's history and culture. They learned about the chile's deep roots in the state, dating back to the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century. They discovered that green chile is not just a culinary staple, but also a symbol of resilience, adaptation, and cultural identity. The students also found out that scientists can’t explain what makes green chiles smell the way they do.
Armed with their newfound knowledge, the students presented their case to Senator Soules, convincing him to introduce a bill declaring green chile roasting as the official state aroma. The bill quickly gained support, passing through both houses of the legislature with overwhelming approval.
On March 23, 2023, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed senate bill 188 into law, making New Mexico the first state in the nation to have an official aroma. The signing ceremony was held at Monte Vista Elementary School, where the students who had initiated the movement were honored for their civic engagement.
Another “first” today! We are the first state in the nation to have an official state aroma. Here in NM, it’s a no-brainer! Thanks to the hard work of Sen. Bill Soules and fifth graders from Monte Vista Elementary, roasting green chile is now our official state aroma! pic.twitter.com/FusRNjn7gA
— Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham (@GovMLG) March 28, 2023
The designation of the roasting green chile aroma as the official state aroma has been met with widespread acclaim. Residents of New Mexico have embraced the new symbol, seeing it as a celebration of their unique heritage and cuisine. Visitors to the state are greeted by the enticing scent of roasting chile, which serves as a tangible reminder of the state's rich cultural tapestry.
The aroma of green chile roasting is more than just a pleasant smell. It is a sensory embodiment of New Mexico's identity, evoking memories of family gatherings, community festivals, and the warmth of the southwestern sun. It is a scent that has been passed down through generations, serving as a reminder of the state's enduring spirit.
As the first state to adopt an official aroma, New Mexico has set a precedent for others to follow. It is a testament to the power of scent to evoke memories, emotions, and a sense of place. The aroma of green chile roasting is a symbol of New Mexico's unique identity, and it is sure to continue to entice and delight visitors for years to come.