California to eliminate the use of a derogatory term for Native American women in over 30 locations.

The plan to eliminate a derogatory term is scheduled to be implemented by January 1.

California to eliminate the use of a derogatory term for Native American women in over 30 locations.
California to eliminate the use of a derogatory term for Native American women in over 30 locations.

The state Natural Resources Agency in California is collaborating with officials to eliminate a derogatory term directed at Native American women in over 30 locations across the state.

The bill signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2022, AB 2022, includes the removal of the term "squaw," which was deemed "derogatory" by the Secretary of the Interior in 2021. The law requires that all geographic features and place names in the state be free of the term by Jan. 1, 2025.

Officials stated in a news release that the term is widely recognized as a racial, ethnic, and gender-based slur, specifically targeting Native American women. Removing it is a vital step in acknowledging the ongoing trauma and oppression that Native communities have endured.

The agency characterized the action as a "courageous stride towards resolving historical wrongs."

Palisades Tahoe
California ski resort whose name included a derogatory term for Native American women changed its name to Palisades Tahoe. ((Photo by Slim Aarons/Getty Images))

The full list of new California names chosen with the help of Native American tribes will be released shortly, the natural resources agency informed The Associated Press in an email.

California delegates from the Indian Rights Association
Three California delegates from the Indian Rights Association meet with Representative Harry Shepard of California to put their claims before Congress. The delegates are Julia Ross Gardner form the Piute, Celestine Pico Von Bulow from the Pachanga, and Thomas Largo from the Cahuilla. (Getty Images)

Geneva Thompson, the Deputy Secretary for Tribal Affairs at the Natural Resource Agency, stated that this step is crucial for Indigenous people.

""Although there are variations in opinions, it is crucial to move forward in healing by acknowledging the historical wrongs inflicted on Native Americans and embracing diverse communities that value and appreciate differences," Thompson stated."

The California Advisory Committee on Geographic Names has decided to implement approved replacement names by January 1st.

The California Natural Resources Agency has been contacted by Planet Chronicle Digital for comment.

by Christina Shaw

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