KTLA

Squaw Valley Ski Resort in NorCal eyes name change over derogatory term

The Olympic rings stand atop a sign at the entrance to the Squaw Valley Ski Resort in Olympic Valley on July 8, 2020. (AP Photo/Haven Daley)

California’s Squaw Valley Ski Resort is considering changing its name to remove the word “squaw,” a derogatory term for Native American women.

Squaw Valley President and CEO Ron Cohen says resort officials are meeting with shareholders and the local Washoe tribal leadership to get their input.

He says he can’t give a timeline on when a decision will be made.

The possible renaming is one of many efforts across the nation to address colonialism and indigenous oppression.

Washoe Tribe Chairman Serrell Smokey said the name Squaw Valley is a constant reminder of efforts to disparage native people.