6-5-2019
LYNDEN, Wash. — The Nooksack Indian Tribe is urging the state to change the name of a local creek because they say it’s insulting.
Nooksack Tribal Director and Historic Preservation Officer George Swanaset Jr. says the name “Squaw” is viewed as a derogatory term.
He submitted an application to the state Committee on Geographic Names to change “Squaw Creek” back to its original name, “Paatstel Creek,” which comes from a historical Nooksack village near the creek’s source.
He says the proper historical name is important to be used as recognition to the first people of this territory.
Whatcom County Councilmember Carol Frazey endorsed the request in an email sent to the Department the Natural Resources.
The creek is between Lynden and Sumas.