Flagstaff gives new name to Squaw Road


FLAGSTAFF (AP) - Flagstaff's controversial Squaw Road is undergoing a name change.

The Flagstaff City Council on Tuesday voted unanimously to rename the street Native Way at the request of a group called Native Americans for Community Action. The group and other Indians in the area said the term "squaw" is offensive.

Webster's Dictionary first defines the word "squaw" as an "American Indian woman," but adds that it can be used in a disparaging manner for both men and women.

Council members said the name change will take effect as soon as street signs are made.

[Editor's Note: Contributed by Steven Baggs from Ruth Rainwater on the internet]

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3 September 1997, lrb