Unadvisable term used in column

When reading Roger S. Lucas’ column of June 19, I was concerned about his use of the term ‘Eskimo.’  

Having lived in Alaska for about 40 years I learned that many (though not all) indigenous Alaskans view the term as racist. Though the origin of the word is still in question, isn’t it better to avoid using it, just as ‘squaw’ is no longer used? 

Having worked for the Anchorage Daily News for most of those years (as a graphic designer, page designer and illustrator) I understand the daily challenges of editing, but this one I couldn’t let go by without commenting.

Here is a link to an NPR article from 2016 discussing the term:

https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2016/04/24/475129558/why-you-probably-shouldnt-say-eskimo

Sincerely,

Pamela Dunlap-Shohl

Editor’s note: The interesting NPR story referenced ends with this advice: “Of course, as with so many words sullied by the crimes of colonialism, not everyone agrees on what to do with Eskimo. Many Native Alaskans still refer to themselves as Eskimos, in part because the word Inuit isn’t part of the Yupik languages of Alaska and Siberia.

But unless you’re native to the circumpolar region, the short answer is: You probably shouldn’t use the word Eskimo.”