Is the word Squaw derogatory (2/9/2007)

2/9/2007 2:52:26 PM MST

Squaw is not derogatory.
Squaw is an ethnic pronoun.

Brave is of the same derivation and has similiar dispute associated with it. I believe Brave to be a regal term. toby

2/10/2007 2:28:37 AM MST

Why don't you try alittle honesty brandon, this is what you said:

Hello Mr. Rowland,

I'm aware of the derogatory nature of the word Squaw, however I'm
not inclined to attempt too "force" Mr. Feldstein into changing the
title of
HIS artwork. He has been listed on this site since 2/17/2003, and this
is
the first time I've ever had a complaint.
If you would like to pursue this matter, I would suggest that you do
so on our public forums. Perhaps this can encourage Mr. Feldstein to
change
his stance. Our public forums can be found at:
http://www.montana-artists.com/MessageBoard/ViewMessageBoard.asp?MessageBoar
dID=1

With Regards,

Branden
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster


Branden
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster
PO Box 5918
Missoula, MT 59806
Phone: 406.550.1900
email: webmaster@montana-artists.com
And guess What you little whiner he did change it.

2/10/2007 8:08:19 AM MST

Is the word squaw derogatory? What better place than Montana to have this debate, in a land that has so many Native Americans and/or First Nation peoples within the region. It is difficult to surmise from the information we have about the Artwork in question and the use of the word in the title, so I do not know the Artists intent. However I do know that someone spoke out about the word, and felt that it represented native women in an undesirable way. Words are symbols and they words create images. Swastika is a word, one that most of you would agree has a bad meaning, and Swastika wasn¡¯t always the word it is today. The swastika ))#35;40;from Sanskrit))#35;41; is an equilateral cross with its arms bent at right angles, in either left-facing ))#35;40;…d))#35;41; or right-facing ))#35;40;…e))#35;41; direction. The term is derived from Sanskrit Svasti meaning-well being, the Thai greeting sawasdee has the same implication.
It is a widely-used sacred symbol in Dharmic religions ))#35;40;Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism))#35;41;. Hindus often decorate the Swastika with a dot in each quadrant. In India, it is common enough to be a part of several Devanagari fonts. It is also a symbol in the modern unicode. It is often imprinted on religious texts, marriage invitations etc. It is used to mark religious flags in Jainism and to mark Buddhist temples in Asia.
In ancient times it was used by Native Americans, Tibetans, Americans and just about everywhere you can imagine; at least until the Nazis took it up as their symbol of the 3rd Riche and used the symbol with such derogatory intent. Today the word and the image bring such horrific memories to mind that it is without debate the meaning of the word has been changed for all time. Hitler an Artist used the Swastika with divine intent in mind for a symbol of his empire, perhaps without realizing what was to come.

If I were to make a movie about Hitler I would surely need to use the Swastika as part of my visual information and my intent would be understood by the viewer. If however I used the symbol on a portrait or in a painting about its sacred meaning it would still be related to the evil of Hitler in the mind of the viewer because it¡¯s symbolic meaning has been changed for all time. I dare say that any artist who intended to include a Swastika in their work would have to wrestle with its modern meaning.

Squaw for Native American and many other women has earned a derogatory status in our modern times. I read the early interpretation of the word, as early as the 1600s, in an English manuscript, that how ever does not take into account that not all Indians spoke the same language and that the word has different meanings in many I am sure, and all not so good even if the use was intended for good. Certainly there are instances that the word is needed to tell a story but the intent of the word is the dilemma. Did the artist need to use the word in the title, could the artist get his or her message across without the word? So it is intent of use that makes a word derogatory and words become symbols of intent. Swastika like squaw most likely will never be seen with positive intent given their history in modern times.

2/10/2007 11:37:13 AM MST

Mr. Rowland,

I don't know where this vile contempt for your fellow man erupts. Why insult me? Why claim I've done anything to hurt you at all? I've done you no harm, and never intended to.

In fact, I'd like to get to the heart of the matter. If squaw is indeed considered derogatory, I will change the policy of this web site. I was unable to find an answer to this question, and would like help in finding it. I've had several people email me with their opinions on the matter, and a few more comment on this web site.

I don't believe in keeping matters like this hidden behind closed doors. I've read the direct response you wrote to Mr. Mercer and those to Mr. Feldstein, calling them stupid, idiots, retarded, "outdated" old rinkly prune, old washed up has been, etc, etc, etc.

Is this your ambassadorial style? Do you use insults to try to intimidate people into not using a word you consider an insult? Is the governor aware of your policy of using slander and vulgar terms in order to get your way?

Branden
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster

2/11/2007 3:07:05 AM MST

Good point Brandon,

I called him those things cause he wouldn't address this issue of the ))#35;40;S))#35;41; word. I meant to hurt his feelings because he is hurting; was hurting the feelings of a whole Nation of Beautiful Indian Women.
My concerns are bigger than my own imperfection.
It has to deal with real live working women who bring life into this world.
No amount of rhetoric or conjecture is ever going to change that.
You have slashed the Hornets nest Branden...
I hope you are good at apologizing.

And I am glad that a Strong Native Woman from my tribe was able to help him see that it was offensive to her. Just as it is offensive to me and 560 or 559 Federally recognized Tribal Nations through out the U.S.
Perhaps you should get a clue about that.

2/11/2007 8:54:12 AM MST

What we have here is a failure to communicate. Let’s not lose the opportunity to open up a discussion a dialogue that can bring some understanding to multicultural relations. I believe that sensitivity and respect are key elements in this discussion. It does appear that the hornets nest has been opened, and hornets sting without thinking, we are not hornets and have an opportunity to move beyond our anger and teach and learn about the sensitivities of each other. There are many artists out in the world today who idealize cultures that they have little understanding about. They the artist’s are naïve and romantic in their depictions of cultural images that are not of their own culture and unaware of the real needs and sensitivities of the people they idealize. Like white guys who paint romantic pictures about the old west, dreams of how it was without understanding HOW IT WAS. I have had a lot of difficulty understanding why these artists choose to portray Indians and Cowboys as they do, removed from time and place, perhaps they are attempting to render historic stories in there pictures, perhaps it is some other reason. What ever the case I feel that when cultural sensitivities of the subject are not understood by the artist the artist has not looked deeply enough at the subject to understand that he or she is offending the culture with words or images. I do not feel it is the responsibility of the webmaster to determine the intent of the artist or sensor the artist for the work as it is presented. I believe that it is the dialogue between the artist and the public, the viewer. In the case at hand that had occurred. The artist changed what was offensive; perhaps not knowing his title in the first place would offend people. The fact that the artist changed the title would suggest to me that his intent was not to offend. Having read the dialogue between Brandon and Christopher there was some very heated discussion. I applaud Brandon for bringing the subject to an open form and I applaud Christopher for over coming his anger and beginning a real dialogue about the cultural differences we share and opening an opportunity to explain and teach each other about what is important and respectful to his people. Because it is this very subject; these very issues that foster intolerance and fear of what we do not understand. It is about healing wrongs and wounds of the past so that those wounds and wrongs are not repeated. Talking, dialogue, truth, understanding and respect are the foundation for all of us on this rock ))#35;40;the Earth))#35;41; to understand each other. Let us all find the truth in our Art. The new ism in art is TRUTH. Let our Voices be True and Respectful

2/11/2007 2:59:42 PM MST

Mr. Rowland:

For what should I apologize? I haven’t done anything that I feel would warrant an apology. If anything you should be thanking me. You can continue to verbally abuse those who have offended you, or you can use this opportunity to educate others to why squaw is offensive to Native American people.

If anyone should be offering apologies it should be you to Mr. Feldstein and Mr. Mercer. This wasn’t a situation that warranted the abuse you subjected them too, if such a situation exists at all. Being insulted doesn’t justify lashing out at someone in return.

This web site gets 15,000 visitors per month, and this article is listed on the home page. It will be here years from now, and perhaps will even be found by others on the Internet that would like to learn whether the word squaw is indeed derogatory.

Would you like to be seen and remembered as the bully that verbally abuses those that don’t share your wisdom? Or the teacher that helps others learn through a gentle touch?

I understand your frustration, I have had a quick tongue at times in my life. It is hard to control emotions when you feel insulted. My father always tells me, if something is to have worth, you must give time to it. It is a lesson, I find I need to continually keep in my mind.

Before responding, please consider, that it is possible that I mean you no harm or disrespect. In fact, I applaud you for standing up for your beliefs! I can’t speak for Mr. Feldstein or Mr. Mercer, but from what I know of them, I don’t believe they meant you any disrespect either.

You may KNOW in your heart that squaw is derogatory, but not being Native American myself, how could I ever understand that? I may never understand it from your perspective, but with your help I can at least learn to respect your feelings on the matter.

Several people sent me email responses to this article, and about 2/3 of them said indeed that squaw was an insult. Arni Fishbaugh, director of the Montana Arts Council also notes that the Montana Legislature renamed several landmarks and place names in Montana to remove the word squaw. I’ve asked her to send me any more information that she can on the subject.

Mr. Eubank:

Thank you for your constructive comments and guiding hand. Your calm demeanor, and clear voice are much appreciated. Lux et Veritas!

Branden
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster

2/11/2007 5:51:21 PM MST

Brandon:

I know that you probably meant well and you were trying to be "fair" about this whole thing. I am a native woman, yet I grew up not knowing I had any native blood in me. And yet at my young age, I new that calling an Indian woman the S word was just as wrong as calling a white woman cunt. Debating the issue only degrades native woman that much more. Just so there’s no confusion, if a word has to be debated on to decide whether it should be used or not, it should give you a hint - Of Coarse it’s derogatory!, and oppressive and racist!!!!!
I know that you probably meant well and you were trying to be "fair" about this whole thing. But to be completely fair you would have to air the nastiness of the email Al sent Chris. The whole story has to be told. See, Chris saw Al's painting on this website ))#35;40;which Chris is also a member of.))#35;41; It incorporated the S word in the title. Being the kind ) intelligent person that Chris is, he wrote to Al explaining how offensive the S word is. He politely asked Al to consider removing the S word from the title of his painting or just completely rename it. Al wrote back and sarcastically thanked Chris for his informative email. Talk about insulted! AL then went on to say that Chris could print out that same email on sandpaper and shove it up his a**!! That surely sounds like abuse to me, and for what, standing up for something Chris knew was wrong?! After that email from Al, Chris responded with passion. That’s where those words, that you so freely added in your response, come into play. Did Al let you in on that part of the story or did he conveniently forget? It's funny how people get when they're in public spotlight. Maybe you should have done research into the matter at hand, instead of just assuming that the Indian is just causing trouble. In the end, Al changed the name of his painting, which was the original issue. You tried to throw digs in your responses to Chris in the public forum. But now everyone has heard the rest of the story. As for the Governor, he has respect and appreciation for Chris, which Chris also has in return. See, in order to get respect you have to give it. Chris did do that and in return Al acted like a sniveling little child. o Chris in the public forum. But now everyone has heard the rest of the story. As for the Governor, he has respect and appreciation for Chris, which Chris also has in return. See, in order to get respect you have to give it. Chris did do that and in return Al acted like a sniveling little child.

2/11/2007 8:17:08 PM MST

Hi Kristina,

Perhaps Chris didn't tell you that BEFORE Mr. Feldstein was able to respond to Mr. Rowland's email, Mr Rowland sent another to Mr. Feldstein saying:

-------
What, are retarded or something? You look retarded. these titles are "outdated" you old rinkly prune. What the hell is wrong with you?
I told you about this... listen to advice you old washed up has been...
-------

Now you may check your email every hour or every day, or heck even once a week. But some of the people of this great earth only check it when they have to. They have better things to do, especially on X-mas eve, when Chris sent the first message.

It would have been kind of Mr. Rowland if he had at least given Mr. Feldstein the opportunity to change it before berrating him. I hadn't wanted to publish this information because of its extremely derogatory nature. If it will clear the air, I'd be happy to publish the correspondence in their entirety.

What Mr. Rowland told you didn't happen in the order he apparently told you. I have a detailed record of the correspondence, as Mr. Rowland initiated that correspondence through this web site. It is time, date, and IP address stamped.

Branden
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster

2/11/2007 10:09:11 PM MST

Branden,

Why are you blocking all of my e-mails?
I’m getting the feeling that your true colors are showing.

1. You are skirting around the issue of this derogatory word ))#35;40;the S word))#35;41;
2. You were misleading the public into believing that you truly didn’t know that this word was derogatory, when in fact, you stated that:

Here is again this is what you wrote: Hello Mr. Rowland,

I'm aware of the derogatory nature of the word Squaw, however I'm
not inclined to attempt too "force" Mr. Feldstein into changing the
title of
HIS artwork. He has been listed on this site since 2/17/2003, and this
is
the first time I've ever had a complaint.
If you would like to pursue this matter, I would suggest that you do
so on our public forums. Perhaps this can encourage Mr. Feldstein to
change
his stance. Our public forums can be found at:
http://www.montana-artists.com/MessageBoard/ViewMessageBoard.asp?MessageBoar
dID=1

With Regards,

Branden
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster


Branden
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster
PO Box 5918
Missoula, MT 59806
Phone: 406.550.1900
email: webmaster@montana-artists.com

And now you are busy crying about me.
When you really should apologize to the Native American Community here in Montana for your stupidity.
Ask Dad about your ingnorance.
You stated that you wanted a definite answer from an authority: This is the Answer Branden: Yes, it is derogatory.
And quit blocking all of the e-mails people are sending in. You could get in trouble for that. Kristina said she even knew it was a bad word, and she grew up here in Montana. Arni Gave you some facts: what Else do you need???? Walk away, Don’t walk away mad, Just walk away……

2/11/2007 10:21:06 PM MST

Hi Chris,

I'm already drafting a new policy for this web site, which will include not allowing the word squaw to be used in a derogatory way. However, I'm also going to remove you from this web site if you won't apologize to me, Al and Toby. You've been extremely abrasive, rude, arrogant, and most of all disrespectful.

If for any reason you decide to continue your tirade, I will contact the police. What you are doing is harassment, and it is illegal.

Also, here is chatter between Al and Chris, its a great read:

---------------------------------------------
BMessage 1/B
---------------------------------------------
TO: Al Feldstein
From: Chris Rowland
Date: 12/24/2006 1:55 AM
IP: 69.146.2.17
Browser: Mozilla/5.0 ))#35;40;Windows; U; Windows NT 5.1; en-US; rv:1.8.0.9))#35;41; Gecko/20061206 Firefox/1.5.0.9

Hi Al My name is Christopher.
I am a fan of yours.
I am also a Northern Cheyenne Artist.
I especially love your landscapes.
I wanted to mention this to you. The word "squaw" is very derogatory to Indian women.
It is a very, very bad word, it's like calling your grandmother a "cunt". It's not good.
I'm letting you know this because I know that you probably you weren't aware of this.
I wanted to give you the heads up before you really piss someone off here.
I'm working with Brian Schweitzer to build bridges between cultures))#35;40;he just bought two large landscapes from me today.))#35;41;
My splashsite is: www.chrisrowlandart.com
or google chris rowland northern cheyenne artist.
If you need any help with these kinds of "things" please contact me, I will be more than happy to help you out. Perhaps I can tell you some great things about the native cultures around here.
thanks
Chris.
---------------------------------------------
BMessage 2/B
---------------------------------------------
TO: Al Feldstein
From: Chris Rowland
Date: 1/8/2007 3:24 AM
IP: 24.72.198.153
Browser: Mozilla/4.0 ))#35;40;compatible; MSIE 6.0; Windows NT 5.1; SV1; .NET CLR 1.1.4322))#35;41;

What, are retarded or something? You look retarded. these titles are "outdated" you old rinkly prune. What the hell is wrong with you?
I told you about this... listen to advice you old washed up has been...
---------------------------------------------
BMessage 3/B
---------------------------------------------
TO: Chris Rowland
From: Al Feldstein
Date: 1/8/2007 10:30 PM
IP: 69.35.71.213
Browser: Mozilla/4.0 ))#35;40;compatible; MSIE 7.0; Windows NT 5.1; .NET CLR 1.1.4322; .NET CLR 2.0.50727; .NET CLR 3.0.04506.30))#35;41;

Thank you for your kind,ego-stroking,complimentary e-mail regarding my painting, "Cheyenne Squaw At Rest."

It's thoughtful, intelligent letters like yours
that make my day.

Please take my answer, print itout on a sheet of sandpaper...and shove it up your ass!
---------------------------------------------
BMessage 4/B
---------------------------------------------
TO: Al Feldstein
From: Chris Rowland
Date: 1/16/2007 8:30 PM
IP: 69.146.2.17
Browser: Mozilla/4.0 ))#35;40;compatible; MSIE 7.0; Windows NT 5.1; .NET CLR 1.1.4322; IEMB3; IEMB3))#35;41;

Dear Al,

Why are you an ignoramus. And why won't you realize that this word))#35;40;squaw))#35;41; has a bad meaning to it?
Are you so errogant to think that all Native Americans have simply no enfluence over the state of Montana?
You are just a punk to me.
The best thing that you can do is apologize for this racial slur and change the name on your painting or I will personally take this on as one of my little projects...
Making sure to expose your racisism for what it is.
You are in MY territory now.
-----------------------------------------------

2/12/2007 3:03:22 AM MST

Branden:

I’m sorry ,Mr Mercer and to Al Feldstein. Shouldn’t have gone there. I’m so embarrassed.
Now, it’s your turn Branden, can you say that you are
“ sorry” for misleading the public?
And, More importantly can you apologize to those Native women out there?
I would at least ask you dad about that…
I don’t want to be on your website. I don’t want to be associated with people who are going advocate and propagate the use of this racist word.
And you can’t even apologize…
I did what I came to do. To tell the people who are using this” word” to stop.
Al did it. And I rest my case. He was smart. And You have finally gotten that wouldn’t be the best thing to continue with this.
If your going cry like a little girl who dropped her lollipop, I say cry !
I came hear to do what I needed to do.
SHAME on you for using that word. SHAME on you for even wanting to debate it when you KNEW that it had a derogatory connotation to it.

2/12/2007 10:26:17 AM MST

Hold the Keyboard! This debate is going know where fast. I thought I was being asked to participate in an open discussion on-line about the nature of derogatory language, the S word as we are going to call it now. It seems that some of the response is heated and now those who spoke out are being punished for their voice. If you ask for comment you have to expect that not everyone is going to see things your way. Sometimes when passions run high words get boiling, but that is the nature of dialogue. Branden it takes a thick skin to tackle issues like the S-word in a public form and you should be prepared for strong reaction. Ask Arnie, she can certainly tell you that you can not shape a discussion especially one with such strong emotional roots and expect to not get bruised in the process. I would strongly advocate for a respectful solution to the issue, and would surely be disappointed if Chris were to be removed from the site because he got upset. I feel the issue is to close to his heart to expect him to not to be angry. Yes, there is no cause to condone name calling and everyone should be respectful of their language. But tempers do fly like Hornets and the sting of words does hurt, like the S-word.

2/12/2007 10:53:18 AM MST

In what way have I been "misleading the public"?

2/12/2007 12:11:11 PM MST

Branden, I think this discussion has just become and argument between you and Christopher. I would not have commented on the subject if I had realized that, that’s exactly what it is, you opened a Pandoras box and then tried to justify your naivety by hosting a discussion that has never reached a level beyond an argument between two other people. How did you mislead the public? I won’t go so far as to say you misled anyone other than yourself. I asked my wife about commenting on the S-word subject and the first thing she said was “I want to see all the e-mails that happened before it was posted as an open form” These e-mails have since trickled out, I still I am at a loss as to if all the e-mails are public or not. There does appear to be TWO conversations going on in this form. One conversation on the website and One on private e-mail. I DON”T LIKE THAT! How I know that, you write about conversations that are not posted on the Website, which appears to be Misleading. I do not believe that was your intent, but you have painted your self into a corner.

2/12/2007 12:15:46 PM MST

P.S. Just for the record I like the website, and I think it is good for Montana Artists and I hope; I hope that we as a community of Artists and Art Patrons can resolve our issues in a civil form that inspires leadership and tolerance of everyone’s voice.

2/13/2007 12:00:26 AM MST

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/squaw

squaw /skw))#35;596;/
–noun

1. Often Offensive. a North American Indian woman, esp. a wife.
2. Slang: Disparaging and Offensive.
a. a wife.
b. any woman or girl.

See http://www.bluecorncomics.com/squaw.htm for more on the subject.

2/13/2007 9:39:37 AM MST

Mr. Eubank:

This article was inspired by the emails posted above, they occurred in Dec ) Jan. I didn't want to publish them initially because of the abusive language used in them. I had hoped a respectable debate could occur. When confronted on them, publishing was the only way I could defend myself.

Also, Mr. Rowland sent Mr. Mercer a similarly abusive email in response to the post Mr. Mercer made above. Mr. Mercer forwarded that response to me. I didn't want to post this either for the same reason.

All of my correspondence on this matter, has been conducted on this page, in the open, not behind closed doors. Though admittedly only because Mr. Rowland felt it prudent to post my initial email response to him, twice, for which I'm still confused. He keeps pointing to it like it has some stench of evil doing.

If in any way my actions seem obfuscated, then I apologize. It wasn't my intention to deceive anyone, I just didn't want to pore salt on old wounds.

Mr. Schmidt:

I just did a search on google for "Define Squaw", here was the result:

Definitions of squaw on the Web:

* an American Indian woman
wordnet.princeton.edu/perl/webwn

Branden
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster

2/13/2007 3:36:23 PM MST

The trouble is that you are asking Montana Natives for verification if a word originating on the East coast is derogitory. So, let's ask a Russian if the word, "Shag" as used in England is polite speech. They are both European--right? So the Russians are experts on England and it's laguage and customs, right?
Among the people who originated the word, Algonkian speakers of the East coast tribes, the word is very dirty, and not a nice way to refer to a woman.
In Montana, the people only heard the word in English speakers context. Thye East Coast tribes are upset over the use of the word, which is essentially pornographic. Want proof? Ask An Abenaki, Pequot, Pasamaquaddy, etc.

2/13/2007 9:29:43 PM MST

Branden, you gave one definition for "squaw" and I gave another. I provided the link for my definition in case there's any doubt.

A single definition isn't definitive even if it comes up first in Google. Besides, the definition you came up with is a result of your Googling the particular phrase "define squaw."

If you simply Google "squaw," you'll quickly find articles on "'Squaw' Controversy" and "Objectionable meaning?" in the Wikipedia entry for "squaw." If you Google "squaw word," you'll get a long list of postings on the word, its origins, and the controversy surrounding it.

Here's yet another source and definition for you:

http://www.thepeoplespaths.net/Articles2000/Soctomah991220Squaw.htm

The Thesaurus of Slang identifies the term Squaw as a synonym for prostitute, harlot, hussy and floozy. The Dictionary identifies this word as one that is used to offend Native females.

In order to understand the true origins of this word, we need to look at the history of the relationship, between Native people and the early European settlers. Some settlers were unable to pronounce the correct word used for women and others refused to accept Native women as humans, so they chose to use a slang version of the correct word. The women weren't the only ones being referred to using dehumanizing words, Native men were also referred to as "Bucks", as a hunter refers to a male deer.

2/13/2007 11:37:19 PM MST

Hi Rob,

I'm trying to emphasize the fact that their still exists a controversy as to whether squaw is indeed derogatory. There seems to be no consensus on the subject.

If you search for other words considered derogatory, you will find near perfect consensus.

BThe N-Word/B

The N-word used to describe a black man in a negative way is considered highly derogatory. How did it become so? Is there a parallel? I mean other than that there may be a derogatory connotation to the word squaw as well. Was it just the fact that it was used in a negative way? Did the N-word actually have a meaning other than a derogatory one?

Branden
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster

2/14/2007 7:03:13 AM MST

Greetings to all who choose to read this. As I read the words that my brothers and sisters typed here, my heart became very heavy. I began this day with a heart that felt like it had wings of an eagle. At this particular point in time, my heart is like a stone.

Does it matter what dictionary, or web site one uses to define the word "squaw"? I assert that it matters not. The authors of these published definitions are non-Native language speakers. Why do we so readily accept dominant society information on topics pertaining to the indigenous peoples of North America? Scholars they may be, but most often the information studied came from dominant society authored literature and text. Elders have forgotten far more than the greatest scholars will ever know about the indigenous peoples of North America. According to the WISDOM KEEPERS, the word "squaw" is a derogatory term. That in itself is enough for me.

It was a good thing that the artist modified the title of his painting. This man is a good man, not because of what he says but how he walks his path/the actons he takes not for himself but for others. Perhaps we can begin today, right now to let go of having to be right and work toward being kind.

We are one among many. We are all interconnected. We are part of one Creator. We are all relatives. Taku ki lena yawunka bluze. Aho. Mi takuye oyasin. All my relations.

2/14/2007 1:42:05 PM MST

Hi Alex,

Thank you for the wonderful post. Who decides what is derogatory? Is it the person))#35;40;s))#35;41; being offended?

I don't want to offend anyone, especially the Native American's that have already suffered so much. Does it all come down to respect? Because you feel its derogatory, I should respect your feelings?

Again, more questions...But the thought process is evolving, at least in my mind.

Thank you!

Branden,
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster

2/14/2007 5:30:14 PM MST

Arni Fishbaugh with the Montana Arts Council contacted the governors office for us, and here was the response:

Dear Montana Artists:

In response to your email to Arlynn Fishbaugh from the Montana Arts Council, please see the attached resolution. You can reach me at ))#35;40;406))#35;41;
444-3702 should you have any questions.

Thank you.


Billie Rusek
Administrative Officer
Governor's Office of Indian Affairs
State Capitol, Helena, MT 59620
))#35;40;406))#35;41; 444-3702
brusek@mt.gov


MONTANA NATIVE AMERTW CAUCUS
66h Montana Legislature
Helena, Montma
February 13,2007
To: The Montana Congressional Delegation The Honorable Senator Max Baucus The Honorable Senator Jon Tester The Honorable Representative Dennis Rehberg As Chairwoman of the Montana Native American Caucus of the 6oth Montana State Legislature, I am enclosing a resolution that was ~assedb y our Caucus asking for your support of national legislation to remove the word "squaw" from public land place names.
The use of the word "Squaw" has long been a term used to denigrate American Indian women and as such denigrates all women. We ask, out of respect for our mothers, daughters, and sisters that you help eliminate this word from our nation's mountains, lakes, streams, etc.
For hundreds of years "squaw" has been used as a derogatory term to refer to Native American women. It is a word of Mohawk origin that is a vulgar description of female genitalia, and as such, is highly inappropriate for use in civilized speech.
Native women deserve a high degree of respect in the United States. A Shoshone woman, Sakakawea, guided the Lewis and Clark expedition across the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Northwest and back again to help them achieve their goal of crossing the American continent, A Hopi woman, Pfc. Lori Piestewa gave her life in the defense of the country in the opening days of the war in Iraq- leaving behind two children and a family who loves her and Elouise Cobell, a Blackfeet Woman from Montana is leading efforts in a class action lawsuit to recover d o n s of dollars due to the mismanagement of the Government for Indian lands and minerals. These are only a few examples; Native women have made countless sacrifices in the name of the United States. They deserve more respect than to hear epithets about them used casually and without concern.
We do not intend to replace the word "Squaw" with another single word.
We believe this is an effort
that should take place by states, local governments, tribal governments, and local communities by their efforts in identifying new or historic place names that honor people from that area or perhaps a historical event. The US Board of Geographic Place Names has a process for place name changes that can be used.
Our nation will be a better place when we respect of all people of this nation. This action will help build this respect between the first people of this nation and their neighbors.
Sincerely,
Representative Joey Jape, Chair
Rep. Norma Bkby
Representative Margie Campbell
Senator Carol Juneau, SD 8
Rep. Veronica Small Eastman
Senator Frank Smith
Senator Gerald Pease
Representative Jonathan Windy Boy
Representative Shannon Augare
Representative Douglas Cordier
Resolution of The Montana Native American Caucus 2007 6oth~ ontanaS tate Legislature Change of the Word "Squaw" in Geographic Names and Places in the United States WHEREAS, we, the members of the Native American Caucus of the Montana Legislature of 2007 are organized to assist in promoting and developing public policy toward a better understanding of the lndian people of Montana, to preserve lndian cultural values, and otherwise promote the welfare of the Montana's lndian people, do hereby establish and submit the following resolution; and WHEREAS, the National Congress of American lndians has passed a resolution which recognizes that the use and public acceptance of terms that carry derogatory connotations to lndian people serve only to further negative stereotypes and attitudes; and WHEREAS, The Montana Native American Caucus of the 2007 Legislature, supports the National Congress of American lndians in this effort, and WHEREAS, the use of the word "squaw" demeans and defames all Native American women in the past and in the present day and has no place in the future; and WHEREAS, to encourage pride and self-identify of lndian young people, and factual understanding among non-Indians, it is important to eliminate the use of negative terms; and WHEREAS, the policy of the United States Board on Geographic Names prohibits the inclusion of words in official geographic names that are derogatory to any racial, ethnic, gender or religious group and has previously taken action to remove words offensive to the African American and Japanese American people of this great nation; and WHEREAS, the Montana Native American Caucus of the 2007 Legislature is offended by the use of the word, does not believe it appropriate as a name for public lands and places, and wishes to discourage the use of this defamatory and derogatory word to describe American lndian women; and WHEREAS, Montana is one of the leaders in the nation by being the second state afler Minnesota to take action to remove the word "squaw" from public land place names in the state through the passage of section 2-15-149, MCA, and replace the names with ones chosen by the established advisory group; and NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Montana Native American Caucus of the
2007 Montana
Legislature does hereby request the Montana Congressional Delegation ))#35;40;Senator Baucus, Senator Tester and Representative Rehberg))#35;41; to support national legislation to remove this derogatory word, Squaw, from public land place names in accordance with the National Board of Geographic Names process.
CERTIFICATION
The foregoing resolution was adopted at the 2007 Legislature of the State of Montana during its 2007 Session, in Helena, Montana, on February 13, 2007, with a quorum present.
- - -
Joey Jayne, Chairperson

2/15/2007 8:44:32 AM MST

I know this is a very heated subject and everyone has a right to their opinion but it is not necessary to call names, racial slurs, and insult people.
My aunt was Cherokee and her given name was Squaw, she loved her name and held her head high whenever someone cut her down for it. I will always remember that and the example she gave.
She was a wonderful loving woman who made her name "Squaw" mean something.

2/15/2007 3:52:37 PM MST

Rose Bone sounds familiar, kind of like that other guy...who's name is starts with a B. She's got that familiar whine "name calling,))#35;40;wa))#35;41; insulting))#35;40;wa))#35;41; and of course racism- which is reserved for "Rose Bone" or, the that guy who's name starts with a B.))#35;41; I just noticed; since there hasn't been any name calling lately that Rose bone is actually... Just a thought, maybe Branden? Naw, scratch that. It couldn't be. or should I say B.

There is not an Indian in the world who would defend that word. But this wouldn't be the first fake statement that we have seen posted folks.
This form is a prime example of a moderator run a muk.
If you really study these statements you will be able tell what is happening.
sometimes, people think that you will never catch on to them.
Please note Mr. Eubanks statements regarding Branden painting himself into a corner and note too please his reply; are you getting it yet?
I bet we are going hear ANOTHER wimper and a cry from a certain moderator...

2/15/2007 4:10:57 PM MST

Hi Chris:

I haven't needed to lower myself to the level of impersonating others, and I'm not about to start now. It seems you've got the market cornered on impersonating others…

-Branden
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster

2/16/2007 8:09:24 AM MST

Mi takuye oyasin. We are all related. I seek strength not to be greater than my brother, but to challenge and improve myself. Does it really matter WHO is insulted or offended? What is importnat is that a relative feels pain as the result of "my" words or actions. When do we stop concerning ourselves about being right and begin to focus on being kind? The words I speak should come from my heart and be words that I would not be ashamed to have my grandfather's grandfather hear. My brother may not be kind or good to me. That is HIS choice. Am I being kind and good to my brother? That is MY responsibility. We are all connected just from different mothers. We are one among many who come from one - Wakan Tanka. Can you not see the circle, the beautiful circle? Mi takuye oyasin. We are all related. Aho.

2/16/2007 12:36:53 PM MST

I don't know if anyone can prove the word "squaw" is derogatory overall. But it's derogatory to large numbers of Native people, at least. That's enough to suggest erring on the side of caution.

3/9/2007 7:53:34 PM MST

Dear Branden:

How come you never added the Letter of Explanation that I sent you
to the "Squaw" flap?

Or have you dropped the whole thing?

MAD-ly yours,
Al

3/12/2007 1:11:05 AM MST

Hey, Branden:

Thanks for printing my "Complaint Letter"...but how about printing my original "Letter of Explanation" that I sent you a while back?

Or did I goof...and you never got it?

MAD-ly yours,
Al

3/13/2007 8:11:19 PM MST

Hi Al,

I never got the letter, or if I did, I missed it. The flurry of correspondence generated nearly overwhelmed me. If I missed something please send it again.

I didn't really want to be the spearhead to this whole campaign, I just wanted to start a debate.

I've said everything that's been on my mind.

Branden
Montana-Artists.com Webmaster

3/19/2007 12:54:52 PM MST

I came across your discussion while looking for information on the word Squaw. I own property in Maine which includes a private road which is named Squaw Point. The property originally was used by the Penobscot indians as a camp where they left their women while the men hunted and fished on islands in the area. Hence the Squaw Point name and designation. The state of Maine has passed legislation deeming the word Squaw as offensive and cannot be used on any land designations. Thus, as private property owners we are being forced to change the name of our privately owned road. It is interesting the the town and the indian tribe are the ones being asked for names, not the property owners. So if you think you opened a hornet nest regarding the naming of a privately done painting just think about renaming a private road. We are suggesting a renaming to squapoint which is the original native spelling, but this doesn't seem to satisfy anyone. Squa is not on the list of offensive names. It offends me because the state is poking it's nose in private property matters. You have an interesting blog going on this situation and was interesting to read.

One final comment - I think anyone can find anything that offends them. If you dwell on that and the past you never move forward. Leave self perceived offenses behind you and look forward to a better life.

6/26/2008 12:05:03 AM MST

Having been exposed to many native american populations , from alaska to florida , I need to say that the term squaw refers to an area of softness, surrounded by difficulty or adversity. I am an avid botanist and naturalist, in 35 years of actual hand to hand experience I have never heard the word squaw used in anything other than a possittive nature.In the alaska area I have eaten food seasoned with herbs called squaws luck or squaws find. I have enjoyed squaw fish and slept on squaw carpet.I have fought fires on every part of the western US , and the word "squaw" has always translated to comfort in the face of adversity.