California Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2022 bill mandated the removal of the word “squaw” from place names.
California will eliminate the offensive term “squaw” from over 30 geographic locations, following a committee’s approval of replacements, the state’s Natural Resources Agency announced Friday. The agency deemed the word a derogatory slur against Native American women.
The agency’s press release stated that removing “squaw” is vital in acknowledging the historical trauma faced by Native communities, adding that this action, supported by tribal, local, and state leaders, promotes a more inclusive California.
The changes, consistent with Governor Newsom’s 2022 bill, will take effect January 1, 2025.
The bill identified “squaw” as a racist and sexist slur, particularly targeting Indigenous women. New names will honor and reflect the indigenous tribes and languages of each area.
While originating from an Algonquin word for “woman,” “squaw” is now officially recognized as offensive and derogatory.
The updated place names will be implemented by January 1, 2025, aligning with broader national efforts to replace offensive geographical terms.
This follows the US renaming of military bases named after Confederate officers last year, a move spurred by years of Congressional action following Black Lives Matter protests.
President-elect Trump’s recent campaign promise to revert Fort Liberty’s name to Fort Bragg was also mentioned.