Reznet

NCAI Commends Piestewa Peak Name Change

By Adam McMullin

The U.S. Board on Geographic Names Domestic Names Committee approved the changing of Squaw Peak, outside of Phoenix, to Piestewa Peak—a move the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) has strongly supported.

"On behalf of Indian Country, I applaud this decision to change the name of Squaw Peak to Piestewa Peak," said NCAI President Joe A. Garcia. "Such a step in changing the name is a remarkable improvement for the U.S. Government to recognize that American Indian communities are no longer accepting the use of derogatory and negative imagery. As a Hopi woman from Arizona, and the first American Indian woman to die in combat while serving with the U.S. military, it is only fitting that Piestewa's heroism is honored in such a respectful and honorable way. The Hopi people should be proud and honored that such a step has been taken to honor one of their bravest citizens."

NCAI has long recommended that any use of the word "squaw" be removed from all geographic sites. NCAI believes that Indian tribes and the US Geological Survey (USGS) can work together in ways that are respectful of tribal culture and ensure that Indian imagery is utilized in an honorable manner.

"The battle for a more realistic and positive image of Indian people by mainstream America has always been a necessary component of our struggle," said Garcia. "As an organization, NCAI opposes the use of negative Native American imagery or symbols when they perpetuate stereotypes of American Indians that are harmful." NCAI has passed two resolutions on this issue in 2000 and 2003.

Founded in 1944, the National Congress of American Indians is the oldest, largest and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country. NCAI advocates on behalf of tribal governments, promoting strong tribal-federal government-to-government policies, and promoting a better understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people and rights.

For more on the National Congress of American Indians, click here. For more on Piestwa Peak, click here.

Adam McMullin is the communications director of the National Congress of American Indians.

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