California Governor Gavin Newson originally ordered the word “squaw” to be removed from names in a bill in 2022
The word “squaw” will be dropped from the names of dozens of places across California, as it is widely deemed a slur that denigrates Native American women, Californian officials have announced on Friday.
The word will be removed from the names of more than 30 geographic features and locations, now that a committee tasked with reviewing them has approved new names, the California Natural Resources Agency said in a press release.
“Its removal is a crucial step in recognizing the ongoing trauma and oppression that Native communities have faced,” the government body wrote. “This action, praised by tribal, local, and state leaders, is seen as a significant step toward a more inclusive California.”
