Squaw Valley Resort, located in Olympic Valley, California, has been a beloved destination for skiers and snowboarders since it hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics. However, recent discussions surrounding the resort’s name have sparked controversy and debate.
In August 2020, the resort’s CEO, Ron Cohen, announced that they would be considering changing the name due to its offensive nature towards Native American communities. The term “squaw” is a derogatory term used to refer to Native American women and is considered by many to be culturally insensitive.
Since then, the resort has formed a committee to explore potential new names and gather input from both the local community and tribal leaders. The committee has stated that they are committed to finding a name that reflects the resort’s values of inclusivity and respect.
In September 2020, the resort temporarily changed its name to “Palisades Tahoe” as a placeholder while they undergo this renaming process. This name change was met with mixed reactions from the public.
Some people believe that changing the name is an important step towards acknowledging and correcting past wrongs towards Native American communities. Others argue that changing the name erases history and tradition associated with Squaw Valley Resort.
Regardless of one’s stance on this issue, it is clear that Squaw Valley Resort is taking steps towards addressing cultural insensitivity in their branding. The resort has stated that they hope to have a new permanent name selected by summer 2021.
In conclusion, while Squaw Valley Resort may be changing its name in the near future, its legacy as a world-class ski destination will continue. As we move forward as a society, it is important to acknowledge and address past wrongs in order to create a more inclusive future for all.