Title
Resolution supporting the name change of Squaw Creek to Manitou Creek in Lake County.
Body
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Squaw Creek is a linear water body located in western Lake County, Illinois; and
WHEREAS, it is recognized that the word “squaw” is a derogatory term to most Native American tribes from our region; and
WHEREAS, the Squaw Creek Drainage District Board has proposed changing the name of the creek from Squaw Creek to Manitou Creek to honor the native spirit of the waterway; and
WHEREAS, in the identification and selection of a new and appropriate name for the creek, the Squaw Creek Drainage District Board has involved representatives from Native American tribes that inhabited Lake County before European settlement; and
WHEREAS, individuals, community groups and government officials have been invited to provide feedback as to the name change, and thus far all feedback has been positive; and
WHEREAS, adjusting the official geographic name of the waterway to “Manitou” Creek makes a positive change by replacing what is considered hurtful with a name that honors the native spirit of the waterway.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Lake County Board does hereby support the name change of Squaw Creek to Manitou Creek and views this process as an educational opportunity for residents and a change that will contribute to the sense of pride that we all have in our local community.
DATED at Waukegan, Illinois on April 13, 2021.