Deseret News | Reader comments: 'Squaw' still Utah moniker

Reader comments
'Squaw' still Utah moniker

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parkcity | 12:30 a.m. May 12, 2008

lets tell everyone this is an offensive term, so that they will know they should be offended, so that they will ask us to change the name, so we can pat ourselves on the back for being champions of political correctness, even though our actions don't show near as much regard for native americans as our faux-compassion does.

Anonymous | 1:19 a.m. May 12, 2008

This part native american isn't offended even a little bit by the word squaw. It just reminds me of my heritage and the fact that my ancestors played a big part in the history of the state of Utah.

What is next? Renaming our entire state? Deseret? Yeah right...

Provoan | 1:22 a.m. May 12, 2008

Squaw Peak is on the North side of Rock Canyon, not the south side of Provo Canyon. That is akin to saying Lone Peak is on the north side of American Fork Canyon, despite the fact that there is a lot of geography in between. Maybe if we spent more time caring about actually geography, and less about the meaning of the names and words, we might be better off as a society.

I have never heard anyone refer or even question the name Squaw Peak in a derogatory fashion. Maybe it happens, but this is just an excuse to dredge up hatreds, not ease pains.

Comments continue below

like a joke | 1:47 a.m. May 12, 2008

The article outlines how a lot of people think the term "squaw" is offensive, then they go to the trouble of making a list of every single place with the word, subjecting those who might be offended (not me) to several repeatings of it. Priceless.

Stan | 5:29 a.m. May 12, 2008

Tired of the word police.

Note | 6:11 a.m. May 12, 2008

I note, from reading the article, that it cannot be linguistically determined for sure if the word even comes from derogatory origins. Is this a case of overwhelming public outcry requesting change, or is this a case of a small handful of politically correct individuals "demanding" that the rest of society change to suit their personal whims? What's next? Personally, I think we should abolish the name "willow creek" from all maps because my wicked stepmother used to beat me with a willow, and whenever I hear the term "willow" it conjures up vivid memories of the psychological damage done to me in my poor, unfortunate childhood!

MHP | 6:17 a.m. May 12, 2008

If the term "squaw" is offensive, then simply omit it. Then as a gesture of friendship and respect, let the Native Americans rename the locations using it. At the same time lets bring back the original name of Utah Lake, to Timpanogos lake. It's much more fitting for the area.

russ | 7:19 a.m. May 12, 2008

MHP: very sensible proposals. In my state the word "squaw" was toss out many many years ago and we seem to be ok. It is a derogatory word.

Having the local Native Americans select a better word would be cool. It is time. Things change, and hopefully, for the better. Many monikers that people used for places have been replaced by better monikers that we can explain to children or foreign visitors. It is ok.

The only problem with renaming Utah Lake to Timpangos, Timper..., well... is the spelling. We would have to have a major re-education effort on that one. But it would be shortened to "Timp" Lake by the users.

Interesting proposals.

Funny | 7:23 a.m. May 12, 2008

I'm not sure why I read this article... I'm sure it was meant to be serious, but rather, I found it to be quite humorous.

I'm sure we will soon have many people with signs, marching and chanting around the state capital for this ever important change.

Even worse than reading the article, was the waste of time, I just spent typing in this comment...

New Name | 7:29 a.m. May 12, 2008

Let's just rename it "Honky" peak. Or maybe "Cracker" peak. I don't think caucasians will cry about it. People need to get over themselves.

pc police ride again | 7:38 a.m. May 12, 2008

like park city pointed out - I'm glad we have the pc police to let us know what should offend us. George Washington was a slave owner - should we abolish his name from the history books and landmarks? Should we just assign a number to everything e.g. -"valley 14"? That we would be a colorful world.

smirk | 8:01 a.m. May 12, 2008

Did anyone else giggle about Squaw Gulch in Beaver County? I sure did.

Pam | 8:04 a.m. May 12, 2008

Was this a slow news day? It sounds like the reporter was bringing something to light that isn't even an issue with Native Americans in this area.

Robert Valentine | 8:12 a.m. May 12, 2008

Rename it "Pioneer Peak" and put an end to it!

Brad | 8:14 a.m. May 12, 2008

My wife and I courted by going up to Squaw Peak frequently. I had no idea the word comes from the Mohawk word "ojiskwa" ï¿½ a derogatory term referring to female genitalia. My wife gets a big kick out of that (and is currently laughing hysterically as she punches me for writing this!)

I wonder | 8:19 a.m. May 12, 2008

Are there any "Native Americans?" If you watch the history channel they say that the first people came to this land from some other continent. That means there are no "Native Americans." We are all emigrants.

roadrunner | 8:23 a.m. May 12, 2008

No one mentioned Squaw bread.

Anonymous | 8:29 a.m. May 12, 2008

Now that we know the true meaning of the word "sqaw", "Sqaw Bread" takes on an entirely new meaning as well!

Feel Good Names Dept. | 8:44 a.m. May 12, 2008

Like most agencies, the federal and state Geographic Names boards are probably understaffed and over-worked. Since having politically correct names is vitally important to our national security, I propose creating a new Federal Department of Feel Good Names, which would be responsible for changing all politically incorrect names (geographic, sports teams, organizations, etc.) to something not offensive to anybody.

cptrips | 8:53 a.m. May 12, 2008

We live in perilous times. Just think how nice it would be to fret over war, poverty or disease instead of such a major issue as whether the word "squaw" is offensive or not. Perhaps convening congressional hearings would be the place to start resolving this issue. God knows it would take a little time away from doing their usual damage. By the way you forgot squaw trail. If we're going to offend, let's do our homework and at least do it well.

Rich | 9:01 a.m. May 12, 2008

Let's get rid of all offensive terms. Mormon Lake, Mormon Flats, Mormon Creek, Mormon Peak and Mormon Bend are all based on a pejorative term for people who believed the Church of Christ was restored through Joseph Smith centuries after the truth was lost. Maybe we could rename places Saints Lake, Joseph Smith Flats, Restoration Peak, Priesthood Bend, etc.?

Wow... | 9:10 a.m. May 12, 2008

At first I didn't know what to think about this situation. Whenever I heard the term squaw I thought of a pretty native american woman. I was surprised to hear another derogatroy idea associated with this term. I thought, well, it's not that big of a deal...

But then, I can remember being in a foreign country seeing youth walk around with american curse words all over their shirts. I asked one about the shirt, and they just thought it was cool because it was english. After explaining that the language was rude, they shrugged, walked away & continued to wear it.

It's a tough situation. I don't think most white people have any idea that it's rude, they just think it's a cool term. Is it worth telling them it's rude and teaching new derogatory terms? How many generations will it be before the names of these places are really changed? Just like the girl didn't want to trash her new shirt, whites don't want to trash all of the literature, maps, books etc. But, for the sake of respect, maybe that's what should be done.

offensive | 9:10 a.m. May 12, 2008

I was taught that the Sqaw could be seen lying down "sleeping" on top of the mountain waiting for her husband to rescue her. If you look you can see her arms folded. I was never taught that the story or term was at all bad. I thought the local Indians were happy that their history was included in the naming of many things here and in other states.

I hope we don't have to remove all the movies with the word Sqaw in them. It seems the honor I thought Indians had for their woman by calling them Sqaw was not so for some but to change it on a possibility that it might be offensive.... is offensive!

Pick your battle... | 9:15 a.m. May 12, 2008

I'm sure this will come off a lot ruder than I mean it to, but I have to put this out there. I have an interest in native american culture, I enjoy learning about they way their life was. I think it's beutiful and their belifs beautiful. But, having lived near a Ute reservation here for many years, they generally are a rude, lazy people who don't respect themselves or their heritage. Why are they getting all worked up? Because the other tribes have... and now they have something else to complain about. I don't claim that they were treated fairly in the past, but let's move on because living in past hatred is toxic to retaining their dignity and culture.

Changing these names will remove their history from our landmarks. Way to go.

Scotty | 9:23 a.m. May 12, 2008

While the PC police are at it, they might as well get rid of the Ute mascot. Sooner or later, the Ute has to go. Local tribe leader approval only prolongs the inevitable.

Ashkii Nez | 9:26 a.m. May 12, 2008

Only in Utah... as a member of the predominate religion of choice and a full-blooded Native American living in Utah, I find it interesting to read such "funny" or do I dare say it "backward" individuals respond to this article. I find it offensive, I've never called my wife that and when others have found contempt with my wife, I've heard her be called by such a name. Fortunately, I have found most folks are just plain ignorant, they have no clue... my question to all is, "What part of ouch don't you understand?" or would you rather just blow me off by saying, "There you go, just trying to be P.C. again, get over it, I don't want to deal with you."

Rose Running Horse | 9:26 a.m. May 12, 2008

Why we are at it, lets get rid of the Ute mascot? This is really looked down upon by the native americans.

New Name | 9:32 a.m. May 12, 2008

Name changed to "Ten Cows" Peak.

Next case...

Ashkii Nez | 9:36 a.m. May 12, 2008

Rose, EXACTLY, the Utah Utes, Cedar City Redmen, Timpinogos Indians, Roy Redskins... on and on, again, "What part of ouch don't you understand?"

CougarKeith | 9:40 a.m. May 12, 2008

This is stupid! Squaw comes from an Indian Word for "A Woman", something to take pride in, and to RESPECT! This is really ignorant! Kind of like St. John's University when they changed their Mascot and nickname from "Redmen" to "Red Storm"? Give me a break! PC Police why don't you hold off on that till the word "Mormon" is stricken from the English Language to apply to members of the "Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints" or the "N-word" is abolished first. It is so "Offensive" I can't write it without drawing public ridicule, it has to be known as the "N-Word"! Kind of like when I was a kid it was the "F-word" now it is a commonly used adjective you here walking through Wal-Mart! I am offended at that, but then again I suppose that comment belongs under yesterday's "Civility" story! I would be pulling my hair out if I had any over all this garbage! PC police concentrate on making real progress, refer to "Squaw" words as "the S-Word". Example: "We are riding our bikes up the S-word Peak in Provo this Saturday, would you like to go?" See if that makes you feel better?

MLD | 9:51 a.m. May 12, 2008

When I encounter geographic names that include Native American references, I am reminded of our rich history and the wonderful contributions of our Native American brother's and sister's ancestors. Take away those references, and I'll be reminded far less often. "Squaw" to me refers to the saintly Native American women who contribute so much to their families and communities.

Ashkii Nez | 9:59 a.m. May 12, 2008

Incredibly articulate Mr. CK... amazing, and English is my second language. Anyways... how about ï¿½Cougar Peak?ï¿½

Travis | 10:19 a.m. May 12, 2008

This is a nonissue to me unless the council, or a significant number of members, of a bona fide American Indian tribe located in the State of Utah petitions whatever government cartographic or geographic office for a change. Part of what I got out of this article is that there is no outcry from the state's American Indians about the use of "squaw" -- if there's not a problem, why change for change's sake, or to satisfy outsiders' need for political correctness?

For example, the Ute tribe completely backs the University of Utah's mascot, yet the NCAA has previously threatened to sanction or ban Utah from some events. If I remember correctly, Utah was able to secure a "waiver" for the use of the mascot name. If there's not a problem, why do the elitists want to fix it?

Come on People | 10:39 a.m. May 12, 2008

I am so sick of people being offended. Are people losing sleep over this? Utah & the USA face greater challenges than what things are named. People making a living at what we can & can't say is even more offensive than all things named "Squaw".

As for allowing the Native Americans renaming everything "Squaw" (as some posting in here are suggesting) is even dafter. How do we know they won't name it something else that is offensive to someone else? What is the PC word for "Squaw"? Will Squaw Peak be renamed: Native American Female Partner Peak? Because in England it is not PC to say spouse anymore and they use the word "Partner". I think the whole thing is a joke. Let us move on to the bigger problems in this country (such as the economy) and fix those first.

TOO FUNNY | 10:40 a.m. May 12, 2008

RE MLD:

there is nothing SAINTLY to the word sqauw.

Herm F | 10:41 a.m. May 12, 2008

This shouldn't be an issue. Thanks for making our lives more complicated by having us feel bad about things we didn't do. I appreciate it. I like "Cougar Peak", but it might be offensive to older woman who date younger men so it's best just not to name anything for fear of offending someone.

Ron | 10:43 a.m. May 12, 2008

People are dying in Darfur and Myanmar, and we are worried about the names of geographical features. We have become so self absorbed.

Another Change | 10:45 a.m. May 12, 2008

I think we also need to change some of our highway signs while we are at it too. As a 1/4096th Native American and a decendant of a great warrior named "Rok", I am offended with the reference to his great and last battle that is hearalded across the nation - "Falling Rock". Time to change to something like "watch for gravity induced solidified magma".

What Gentlepersons would do ... | 10:47 a.m. May 12, 2008

It is hard to comprehend why some say they can't see what the issue is, nor speak of that which they fail to understand without becoming offensive.

St Paul said, "I will be all things to all men to convert them to the love of Christ." He also said that no Christian would do that which could offend a 'weaker brother.'

That being said, anyone uses language that others find offensive, is a churl, a boor, and no gentleman. We question their commitment to the mores of any religion they profess to espouse.

The derivation of 'squaw' is far from certain, and in light of the fact that some Native Americans believe that it is taken from a derogatory word, whose cousin exists in English and is equally opprobrious, anyone of any sensitivity at all will abstain from using the word without being asked to do so.

The same argument could be used for the N-word, which also has a source that was not derogatory at its inception, but it became a most uncomplimentary term, and is now almost universally recognised as such.

Lip filth is the mark of a bully, cultural or otherwise.

Scotsman | 10:56 a.m. May 12, 2008

I'm requesting a name change to the "Scotch Pine", it has nothing to do with my heritage & I'm offended that is associated with Scotsmen.
As far "Scotch Tape", I will alow it as long as I get some dividends from the sale.

OiS | 11:10 a.m. May 12, 2008

I am offended by the word "moniker." I've always hated that one.

Anonymous | 11:20 a.m. May 12, 2008

AZ still uses squaw names as well. Why pick on UT?

Ashkii Nez | 11:27 a.m. May 12, 2008

Your statement is absolutely profound... "Lip filth is the mark of a bully, culture or otherwise". I would have to concur with such a wise adage. Their are some funny people here, I sure like the Scotsman, and youï¿½re cracking me up man!

a constructive suggestion | 11:29 a.m. May 12, 2008

I notice the first instance of Squaw is in Beaver County... which gives me an idea.

If "squaw" is a crude native reference to female genitalia, how about renaming all the "Squaw" places "Beaver"?

Enoughalready | 11:42 a.m. May 12, 2008

We must live in a wonderful country if this is all some people have to worry about. Perhaps if they were busy chopping wood, hauling water and trying to collect enough food to eat for the day, they wouldn't have time to be offended by every little thing.

Anonymous | 11:50 a.m. May 12, 2008

Just reading the comments I was offended by the word "squaw" as it was how I was referred to when I was younger, it makes me cringe because I believed it was derogatory then as it is now. Being a member of an Indian Tribe I do not look on the word as a reference to a beautiful Indian maiden; it was meant to be offensive and it was a word referred to Indian women by the newly arrival of European men. To them Indian woman were no better than the dogs they owned. If you want to refer to history or being politically correct then REALLY look at the history. Why isn't the truth ever really published? Who is right? To ï¿½I Wonderï¿½, ï¿½Bradï¿½, and ï¿½Pick Your Battleï¿½ it is attitudes like this that we have faced for many years, for once try looking at the situation from the inside out before you allow your words to travel. As youngster we were taught our words can hurt so be very careful in what you said, this is the advice I leave you with

porky | 11:49 a.m. May 12, 2008

I consider the word "girl" offensive everytime it's used when referring to any female over the age of 12. Let's demand change for that too!

This is so stupid.

Anonymous | 11:57 a.m. May 12, 2008

Travis: "why do the elitists want to fix it?"

Elitist? Clearly someone wasting their time changing landmark names isn't elite. Rather, they are mediocre, at best. Much like someone who takes right wing buzzwords and throws them around on message boards, believing it makes them look like they actually know something.

Ashkii Nez | 12:03 p.m. May 12, 2008

You know I loving living in Utah, it's not because of the ï¿½small mindedï¿½ people in their ignorance, I have to tolerate them by "commandment" yet, there fortunately is enough "enlightened" people who are open to influence that make up for the ignorance of others. Thank you.

Scotsman ... Again! | 12:06 p.m. May 12, 2008

Alright, I thought of some more ...
"Scotch Whisky", we'll follow the same pattern of dividends as the "Scotch Tape" issue, only we will add some Utah type "Sin Tax" dividends.
Scotch Plains, New Jersey ... Just having New Jersey associated with Scotsmen is completly offensive in itself, but then using "Plains", well that is a kick in the teeth/backside/head/{other body part of your choice}. We Scotsmen love the highlands & mountains, this just irritates me .... Where is William Wallace when you need him?

P.S.: Excuse the spelling & grammar, I was working on the "Scotch Whisky" dividend study ... hicup ..

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