The Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows ski area in North Lake Tahoe, California, has announced it is looking for a new name after deciding it is time to drop ‘squaw’ as the resort’s owners believe it is a derogatory and offensive term.
The decision follows extensive research into the etymology and history of the term ‘squaw’ both generally and specifically in collaboration with Native American groups, including the local Washoe Tribe.
Work to determine a new name has already begun and the name change will be made after the winter season concludes in 2021.
Ron Cohen, president and COO of Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, said: “With the momentum of recognition and accountability we are seeing around the country, we have reached the conclusion that now is the right time to acknowledge a change needs to happen.
“While we love our local history and the memories we all associate with this place as it has been named for so long, we are confronted with the overwhelming evidence that the term ‘squaw’ is considered offensive.
“As much as we cherish the memories we associate with our resort name, we must accept that these emotional attachments do not justify our continuing use of a word that is widely accepted to be a racist and sexist slur. We will find a new name that reflects our core values, storied past, and respect for all those who have enjoyed this land.”
More information on this decision, as well as the history surrounding the word ‘squaw’ can be found by CLICKING HERE
Squaw Valley, which opened in 1949, hosted the 1960 Olympic Winter Games. It linked with ALpine Meadows in 2012 and the combined area now offers over 6,000 skiable acres with over 270 trails served by more than 40 lifts.
It is part of the Alterra Mountain Company which also operates Steamboat and Winter Park in Colorado; Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain and Big Bear Mountain Resort in California; Stratton and Sugarbush Resort in Vermont; Snowshoe in West Virginia; Tremblant in Quebec, Blue Mountain in Ontario; Crystal Mountain in Washington; Deer Valley Resort and Solitude Mountain Resort in Utah; and CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures in British Columbia.