07-05-2025
Oregon lawmakers seek to remove names of ‘offensive locations' with Dignity in Place Act
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Oregon representatives have voted to rename several of the state's waterways, valleys, and roads to remove what they say are offensive names for beloved locations.
HB 3532, also known as the Dignity in Place Act, was introduced by Rep. Tawna Sanchez (D-Portland) to rename landmarks including Squaw Creek in Douglas County, Chinaman Hat in Josephine County, and Cannibal Mountain in Lincoln County.
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'Renaming offensive locations in Oregon reflects our shared commitment to mutual respect, historical truth and creating a welcoming environment for all Oregonians,' Rep. Sanchez said. 'My hope is that no one has to drive in any wonderful part of the state of Oregon and feel like they don't belong there.'
According to the Oregon House, the U.S. Department of the Interior began reviewing and replacing names of landmarks on federal land in 2021.
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In 2001, Sen. Kate Brown passed legislation to remove 'derogatory' names from Oregon locations. The Oregon Historical Society has since listed 107 geographic locations with offensive names in the state. HB 3532 shares that several of these names still remain.
'The next generation shouldn't have to grow up seeing slurs on signs and thinking it's just something they have to live with,' Rep. Annessa Hartman (D-Oregon City) said. 'It's long past time we step up, take responsibility, and remove them from our maps and landmarks.'
The bill is now headed for consideration by the Oregon Senate.
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