California to Remove Derogatory Place Names by 2025

California is set to remove the derogatory term 'squaw' from over 30 geographic locations by January 1, 2025, as mandated by a bill signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2022. This initiative is part of a broader effort, including federal actions led by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, to eliminate racially offensive names from public places. The California Advisory Committee on Geographic Names, in consultation with Native American tribes, has approved new names for these sites, such as 'Tebti' in West Sacramento. This renaming effort reflects a commitment to addressing historical injustices and promoting inclusivity. The changes will affect various features, including streets, bridges, and public buildings, across 15 counties in California. A full list of these sites and their new names is expected to be released soon.