Attachment B.pdf

S**** Peak Drive Submitted Comments - E-mail, Phone, Written, Web Comment Form
(Comments from residents of street or adjacent streets shaded in yellow at top and shaded in yellow)
Type of Contact
Postion on renaming
Live on 
street? 
(noted if 
provided by 
resident)
Comments
Preferred alternative(s)
E-mail received 
Thursday, July 16. Staff 
e-mail response on 
July 16.
In favor
Yes
Supports Peak Drive as new name. Expressed concern over updating addresses and potential cost
Web comment form. 
Submitted July 19
Phone call to request 
meeting registration 
information
Yes
Called to request web meeting registration details. Staff sent those on July 23
Web comment 
submitted July 30
Opposed
Yes
Greetings,
I would like to share two points regarding the proposed renaming of streets:
1.)  Based on discussion with City Council representatives, I have confirmed this is a response to racial 
justice demonstrations in Phoenix.  Changing a street name does nothing to address this problem.  I urge 
you to not confuse doing something for doing the right thing.  As leaders of the community it is 
incumbent upon you to identify causes of racism and address them.  This isn't easy an easy problem to 
solve so don't be enticed to take easy actions.
2.)  The process for renaming is unfair to the residents.  The vote taken at the July 1 City Council meeting 
was done without reaching out to us residents.  The scheduled meetings for public comment are open to 
Web comment submitteOpposed
Yes
I live on Squaw Peak Dr.  2 items:
1. I am NOT in support of changing the name.  We have asked the City Council directly for their plan to 
improve racial inequality in our city, and the response was we are renaming a street.  They admitted this
is not part of any comprehensive solution.  Their time, effort and resources should be spent on solving 
the real issue.  This is a symbolic gesture that solves nothing.  I want the City Council to know The City of 
Phoenix deserves better, and I am holding them accountable for real solutions.
2. Should the renaming move forward, Given these tense times,  A generic name that is NOT linked to 
any ethnicity, Or particular Tribe, would be the prudent choice.  Peak Drive, Sunset Drive or Iron 
Mountain Drive would All preserve at least a shred of our valuable history.  Under NO circumstances am
I in favor of anything with the name Piestewa in it. 
Web and e-mail 
comment.
Yes
If the mayor and city council vote to force the renaming of Squaw Peak Drive, I would propose the 
following names for the reasons noted below (in addition to the fact they do not appear on the list of 
current PHOENIX street names found online and are easy to pronounce, write, and spell):
Sunset Place – When 
heading down the street 
from the mountain in 
the evening, there are 
beautiful views of 
Arizona sunsets, and 
many people head up to 
the mountain to view 
the gorgeous sunsets.  
Desert Sage Dr. – The 
Desert Sage bush is well 
known in the Valley, 
especially for its 
beautiful purple flowers. 
Desert Sunset Dr. – 
Another very descriptive 
name for the beautiful 
drive down the street 
being considered for 
renaming. 
Mountain Pass – 
Certainly descriptive of 
the drive into the park.
End of Resident Comments
E-mail received 
Monday July 13
Not specified
Questioned whether the word actually is offensive. She requested a desert-themed name if the name is toIronwood
Sunset
Staff e-mail process 
information on July 15
Sent links to web resources and meeting details
Phone call and e-mail 
on July 15
In favor
No
Supports renaming Squaw Peak Drive
E-mail received 
Thursday, July 16. Staff 
e-mail response on 
July 16.
Not specified
Request for meeting registration details. No comments given
I am not in favor of renaming Squaw Peak Drive.  Though I respect the Native American community, 
even the Native American community is not in agreement regarding whether or not “squaw” is a 
derogatory term (see 3/23/2017 article in Indian Country Today). The mayor and council are pandering 
Opposed
Yes
ATTACHMENT B

S**** Peak Drive Submitted Comments - E-mail, Phone, Written, Web Comment Form
(Comments from residents of street or adjacent streets shaded in yellow at top and shaded in yellow)
Web comment form. 
Submitted July 17
Opposed
No
Where is the proof that the word “Squaw” was ever a derogatory term until a particular newspaper 
publisher decided to gain attention/sales and then started a campaign which led to all other team 
mascots being “derogatory!”  I will not buy into erasing my Native American heritage! Before you know 
it, “Native American, American Indian,” Aqua Caliente, Tucson, Santa Fe,” etc. will be deemed 
derogatory!!!
As for Robert E. Lee’s name, I refuse to be a part of erasing our history. I refuse the kool-aid!!!
Web comment form. 
Submitted July 18
No
I don't live on either street names, just a City resident for 48 years. Is this really the best use for City 
taxes? City budgets are severely strained now, especially with Covid-19. I am sensitive to the names but 
should this be phased in over time after the virus is controlled? Don't need a return response just you 
consideration for the City budget.
Web comment form. 
Submitted July 19
In favor
No (.4 miles 
away)
As a homeowner near the base of Piestewa Peak for 30 years, a frequent hiker of the mountain, and 
Coordinator of the annual March 23 Piestewa Fallen Heroes Sunrise Service in the park, I urge City 
Council to change the name of “Squaw Peak Drive” to “Piestewa Peak Drive.” 
The name “Piestewa Peak Drive” would give the street a very meaningful name which would honor Lori 
Piestewa, the first Native American woman to die for our Country in overseas combat.  It would also 
honor all our military heroes and recognize that this Country and the freedoms we enjoy today are made 
possible only through their courageous sacrifices. This is the focus of our annual sunrise service at 
Piestewa Peak.   A very important part of Lori’s dedication sign at the summit trailhead states that “By 
recognizing one hero, we honor all military heroes and raise public awareness that regardless of race, 
religion, or ethnic background, we all come together to defend our homeland.” 
This public street has always been named after the mountain as it is the only road that leads directly to 
Piestewa Peak.  It has been directly tied in to the prominence of the mountain and has served as a 
landmark that helps show visitors where to turn and how to get to Piestewa Peak.  Renaming the street 
“Piestewa Peak Drive” would be the proper thing to do. 
The name of the road was not changed when the mountain’s name was changed because there was a 
different process for renaming streets. As a result, Squaw Peak Drive has continued to carry a name 
deemed derogatory and offensive towards Native Americans.  It is a glaring inconsistency with the city’s 
proud Point of Pride designation of Piestewa Peak in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and with the city’s 
position as a great all-inclusive city.
Supports Piestewa Peak 
Drive as replacement
Web comment form. 
Submitted July 19
In favor
No
As a member of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) District 1 (Maricopa County, 
Arizona) I strongly support renaming the Squaw Peak Drive to LORI PIESTEWA DRIVE.  AS A SOLDIER AND 
FIRST NATIVE AMERICAN to die in combat, it is appropriate to name the Drive in her name.  
So again rename the drive to LORI PIESTEWA DRIVE.
Piestewa Drive
Web comment form
In favor
No
My family has resided in Phoenix for more than 50 years, the past 20 years in a home near the base of 
Piestewa Peak Mountain.
As one of the original members of the Arizona Piestewa Committee, I herewith join the many others 
who recommend changing the name of "Sqyaw Peak Drive" to "PIESTEWA PEAK DRIVE", as reflected in 
the three main reasons documented and submitted to the Phoenix City Council by the "Arizona For 
Piestewa Committee".
To be clear, it was not just co-incidental that "INDIAN SCHOOL ROAD" was given its name because it was 
the only road leading directly to the historic Indian School campus.
Likewise, it was not co-incidental that phoenix's "CENTRAL AVENUE" was given its name because it was 
the only central street which divides the east side of Phoenix from the west side of Phoenix.
Hence, the public street leading to the Piestewa Peak Mountain should be named after the mountain, as 
it is the only road/street that leads directly to Piestewa Peak Mountain.
It's always good to give name to a street that has meaning.  So many have died for the freedom we have 
today.
Respectfully submitted,
Jesse J. Ary; Realtor, HOMESMART, INC.
Former Member; Phoenix Community Development Block Grant Commission
Former Member; Arizona State Board of Education
Former Member; Governor's African American Advisory Council
Former Member; Phoenix Human Relations Commission
Former Executive Director; Phoenix Downtown Y.M.C.A.
Former Arizona Department of Education Liaison; to the Arizona State Senate
2020 City of Phoenix, Arizona Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr./Honorable Calvin C. Goode, Sr. Lifetime 
Achievement Awardee
Piestewa Peak Drive
Date/Type of Contact
Postion on renaming
Live on or on 
adjacent 
street?
Comments
Web comment form. 
Submitted July 20
In favor
No
Please consider renaming Squaw Peak Drive to PIESTEWA PEAK DRIVE.
Piestewa Peak Drive
Comments at July 17 
ITAA meeting
In favor
No
Proposes Iron Mountain, traditional name for the peak from the O'odham people and use the O'odham 
name “Vainom Do’ag.”  Martin Harvier, President, Salt River Pima Maricopa Community
Iron Mountain Drive
Vainom Do’ag (O'odham 
for Iron Mountain)
Comments at July 17 
ITAA meeting
In favor
No
Overdue action to remove hurtful, racist name. Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis, Governor, Gila River Indian 
Community
Piestewa Peak Drive

S**** Peak Drive Submitted Comments - E-mail, Phone, Written, Web Comment Form
(Comments from residents of street or adjacent streets shaded in yellow at top and shaded in yellow)
E-mail comment July 
22
In favor
No
As "Old Country Doctor Grandpa" my commendation response to your proposed derogatory Street 
Name Change near "Piestewa Peak" is as follows: 
As you plan for the new name for the road leading to the already re-named Piestewa Peak Tourist 
attraction, replacing the derogatory "Squaw Peak" name, Commendations  go to the Piestewa Family, 
the continuing Piestewa Memorial Committee, the past Legislative action of the Arizona Legislature and 
the very supportive Governor Janet Napolitano. All are to be highly commended for their past name 
change role achievements. 
You,  of the Phoenix City Council are also to be highly commended for your current follow-up Leadership, 
which will hopefully lead to the logically proposed nearby street name revision to become:  "Piestewa 
Peak Drive."  This proposed new name makes a very helpful non- derogatory guidance connection 
linkage name from the Street leading to the Peak for those seeking to reach their Piestewa Peak 
visitation destination. 
Why do I feel so strongly as "Old Country Doctor Grandpa" on this name change issue? In all my long 
Family Physician action life of 62 years working with many Native American Tribal Nations, since 1958, it 
is very impressive that: 
I have Never heard a Native American personally refer to another Native American Woman as a 
"SQUAW."  !!!
Piestewa Peak Drive
Web comment form 
submitted on July 22
In favor
Supports Piestewa 
Peak Drive
No
The most appropriate and logical name for the street is Piestewa Peak Drive.
This is the only road leading to Piestewa Peak, and serves as a landmark to show visitors where to turn. 
Squaw Peak Drive is derogatory and offensive to Native Americans.  Please consider the name change. 
E-mailed comments 
July 24
In favor
No
I’ve lived in Phoenix since 1974. I’ve hiked Piestewa Peak for years until it got so crowded. The street 
leading to Peak has reflected the name of the peak. Yet Squaw is not a friendly name to our Native 
American Indians. I grew up in Oklahoma with 51 American Tribes. We were taught the culture history 
of the Native American Indians. I feel that when Squaw was changed to honor Lori Piestwesa in 2003/4 
the street leading to the peak ought have been changed as well. So for years it’s been a conflict. It’s time 
to respect our Native American Indian culture and match the the street name with the peak name 
Piestwesa Peak Dr Piestwesa Dr. And while on the subject Robert E Lee was president of the 
confederacy and since we are a unified nation. This name needs to change also. Unity Street Unified 
Street. My Dads family came to US in 1652 in Maryland most fought Missouri  both sides I’m sure. The 
Upchurch came in 1635 to Jamestown then North Carolina I’m sure confederate side but once the Civil 
war came to an end. Both families have served in military over the years. So what do you name a street 
with such history of a man. Patriot Street, Drive Lane Place think of the Revolutionary time in our 
country. Yes many of our leaders had slaves. It’s our history neither right wrong just a strong believe 
Federal was not good g to rule the states. Decisions kind like today. How about naming the street 
after Michael Williams killed March 23 2003 Same day as Lori Piestwesa. Or another hero police officer 
fireman Good Luck it’s time to look at what we name sites streets to reflect respect for all cultures and 
races. 
Michelle Williams
Or Police or Firefighter
Comments submitted 
via web form July 24
In favor
No
Squaw Peak Drive is very derogatory to American Indians. Does no one remember how Squaw Peak 
Mountain and Squaw Peak freeway had to be renamed because the word Squaw is offensive????
Comments submitted 
via web form July 24
In favor
No
I think renaming Squaw Peak Rd to Piestewa Peak is in the best interest of our city.  It is also a safe and 
easy way to find Piestewa Peak. 
I Am proud of our city for recognizing appropriate times to make important changes. 
E-mail comments subm In favor
E-mail comments 
submitted July 25
In favor
I ask that you to strongly consider changing the street name Squaw Peak Drive to Piestewa.  I think it 
would be the right thing to do, and a great show of respect for our Native American and military families. 
Voicemail comments 
submitted July 25
In favor
No
Left a voicemail requesting the name of the street be changed to Piestewa Drive. 
Voicemail comments 
submitted July 25
Resident left a voicemail with e-mail address requesting meeting registration information. Staff e-mail 
meeting registration links on July 27.
E-mail comments 
submitted July 27
In favor
No
Comment added to record
Piestewa Peak Drive
comment submitted Ju In favor
No
Piestewa Peak Drive has my vote. 
Piestewa Peak Drive
Web comment submitteIn favor
No
Supports renaming the street to honor our veterans.
Piestewa Peak Drive
Web comment submitteIn favor
No
Supports renaming the street to Piestewa Peak Drive.
Piestewa Peak Drive

S**** Peak Drive Submitted Comments - E-mail, Phone, Written, Web Comment Form
(Comments from residents of street or adjacent streets shaded in yellow at top and shaded in yellow)
Web comment submitteOpposed
No
In 2017 when the Mayor and City Council brought up the issue of changing the name of Squaw Peak Dr, 
the process was that if the majority of the residents opposed the name change it would not be done. 
Well, to the dismay of the Mayor and City Council that happened. So the process was intentionally 
changed by the Mayor and city council to side-step the residents and cut them out of the process. I was 
under the impression, and it seems mistakenly, that government officials serve the people not dictate.
Recently a sign facing the Lincoln Dr traffic was placed close to the intersection of Lincoln Dr and Squaw 
Peak Dr with info about the name change and dates for this hearing. This was not done in 2017. 
It seems the Mayor and City Council is doing it’s best to rub the name change process in the faces of the 
residents in trying to drum up support for their cause. 
I have lived on Squaw Peak Dr for 10 years and in that 10 years I have never had anyone complain to me 
about the name of our street. In instances where I have needed to give my address to someone, why is it 
that they almost always asked me to spell it? Maybe it’s because it has no significant meaning to them 
and or they have never even heard the name before. As home owners and tax payers it is quite 
upsetting that those who have no financial investment in a home or pay taxes to live on our street have 
more say than this street’s residents do. 
Instead of doing something really meaningful that could possibly be life changing and have a  permanent  
impact on a specific community as in this case the Native Americans, what do you do? You changed a 
street name! Wow! That’s one for the history books! This action really helped a lot of people in need 
right????  
 I am sorry but it feels more like pandering to me. Throw them a bone and hope they go away until it’s 
election time again. 
E-mail comments subm In favor
I strongly disapprove of the derogatory name of "squaw". I strongly agree that Phoenix rename the Drive 
to Piestewa Drive.
E-mail comments subm In favor
I am happy to hear that Phoenix is seriously considering changing the name of this street to match the 
official name of Piestewa Peak. I am very aware of the controversy involved.  I taught at Tuba City high 
school for over two decades, and am good friends with the Piestewa family; in fact, even had Lori in a 
class briefly. I was at her memorial service in Tuba City and talked directly with Lori's oldest brother 
Wayland about the meeting they earlier had that day with the Governor when she announced the 
planned name change.  Of course, it's the Hopi way to be courteous and deferential to any guest (esp. 
the Az. governor)..Wayland had told me they appreciated the honor to his sister but had also 
commented that they desired the honor to be for ALL veterans...... Later, he told me that they were 
upset because so many had politicized the name change, and they just wanted unity. ... This is also the 
idea behind the yearly honoring they have around March 22 at Piestewa Peak; while it revolves around 
Lori, they also honor many other veterans at the ceremony. The Piestewa name is much more honorable 
and deserves to preserve the contributions of Arizona veterans for years to come  (Lori was half Hopi 
and half Mexican).  The squaw peak name will always be controversial.  Native Americans you conslt will 
be almost as split on this as "redskins".....but from the white perspective, the word "squaw" itself 
implies "possession" of a woman. And in at least one of the Iroquois languages it refers to a "vagina."  
Given today's climate, it makes a great deal of sense to be objective and rename the street Piestewa 
Peak drive ..... and not dwell on decades old stereotypical slang that disrespects Arizona's indigenous 
people. I hike Piestewa Peak and area daily--it's not far away and gives me a chance to honor the 
Piestewa family  I would welcome the opportunity to travel up the street with that most honorable 
name. 
Web comment submitteIn favor
No 
Please practice respect for the American (Native) people. Thank you. 
Peak Drive
Sunset Drive
Iron Mountain Drive
Web comment submitted Aug. 1
No
I think SRP-MIC & GRIC NEED to be at the center of this renaming of a mountain in THEIR homeland.
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 4
Opposed
The last time the Mayor and the City Council tried changing the name of Squaw Peak Drive, a local news 
anchor, John Hook from Channel 10, solicited comments from the public on his Facebook page.  He got 
over 200 responses, and an OVERWHELMING NUMBER DID NOT SUPPORT CHANGING THE NAME OF 
SQUAW PEAK DRIVE.  Only 2 out of more than 200 responses agreed with the name being changed.  The 
general public does not agree with bothering with this name change and thinks the Council’s time and 
energy should be better spent on more important issues.

S**** Peak Drive Submitted Comments - E-mail, Phone, Written, Web Comment Form
(Comments from residents of street or adjacent streets shaded in yellow at top and shaded in yellow)
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 4
Opposed
No
I am deeply disappointed that we have come to this point in our lives where we must accommodate the 
few, the loud and the rude because they are offended by a commonly used named throughout history. It 
wasn’t without controversy that Squaw Peak was renamed to Piestewa Peak in 2003. Fast forward to 
2020 and here we are “sanitizing our history to make a group of people feel better”. So, let’s make this 
change to Squaw Peak Drive a powerful one that honors the life of a native son. Charles H. Keating, IV, 
the first Navy SEAL from Phoenix and the state, to be killed. Charlie, as he is often referred to, was killed 
in Iraq on May 3, 2016 serving during Operation Inherent Resolve, at the age of 31. As part of a quick-
response force mission to aid American troops under attack, he became the third American service 
member to die fighting the Islamic State group. Charlie was born and raised in Phoenix, graduated from 
Arcadia High School and could frequently be found hiking or running the trails of Piestewa Peak. There is 
so much more to tell, and for that reason, there are several of us that would be happy to make a 
presentation to the City Council regarding this amazing young man and why it is the right thing to do in 
naming Squaw Peak Drive in honor of him.
For additional information, please see the following: https://c4foundation.org/;  
https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2016/05/03/navy-seal-killed-by-isis-fire-in-iraq-
identified/; 
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=Charles+Keating+IV+Death+Video&ru=%2fvideos%2fsearch%3f
q%3dCharles%2bKeating%2bIV%2bDeath%2bVideo%26FORM%3dVDMHRS&view=detail&mid=6BC44B8
106EFCCABEED06BC44B8106EFCCABEED0&rvsmid=66B7D176420D2DFA2B7F66B7D176420D2DFA2B7F
&FORM=VDQVAP 
Charles H. Keating, IV
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 4
No
You should also rename Indian School Road. The “Indian schools’” primary purpose was to assimilate 
native Americans children into white culture, erasing their identities. 
E-mail comment 
submitted Aug. 5
In favor
I am for renaming the Squaw Peak Dr. 
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 5
So, just to clarify…We are expected to change the name of Squaw Peak Drive while the Native 
Americans still perform the SQUAW DANCE (their name, not ours) as part of their religious ceremonies 
and they still make SQUAW BREAD?!  What’s wrong with this picture?  The Mayor, City Council, and 
Squaw Peak Drive residents are being held hostage by a small, but vocal group who don’t necessarily 
speak for the entire First Nation.  If the tribes really felt it was so demeaning of their women, they would 
not continue to use the name in their own ceremonies and other aspects of their culture, especially 
since many of the tribes in Arizona are matriarchal/matrilineal societies; e.g., Navajo, Hopi, or 
matrilineal; e.g., Pima.  
If this issue had any real merit, the Native Americans should first deal with it in their own ceremonies 
and culture before expecting others to do the same.
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 5
In favor
No
One can be named after the Peak.  The other, how about Lincoln Ragsdale - after  my old neighbor who 
was a Tuskegee Airman! 
Piestewa Peak Drive
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 5
Oppposed
No
To Whom it May Concern:
I am not for renaming the streets, parks, or anything else in Phoenix.  My belief is that there are more 
important things to be worried about other than worrying about names of the things in Phoenix.  I do 
not believe that it is offensive and I feel it was offensive to rename Squaw Peak...and to this day we that 
are natives will always call it Squaw Peak.  
Here is a link that I found that explains how things got their name and what it means.
https://press.uchicago.edu/Misc/Chicago/534650.html  
The world has become offended by almost everything, so why not take time and sit back and let things 
take it's course.  Everyone that I talk to is not offended and think that there's more important issues at 
hand than renaming things so as not offend.  
E-mail submitted Aug. 
6. Identical comment 
also submitted via 
Web.
Opposed
No
To:  Mayor Gallego, Councilman Sal DiCiccio, Mario Paniagua
Last night in the August 5th Squaw Peak Drive street renaming meeting, Mario Paniagua responded in reference to a question 
as to why Squawbush Place was not also targeted for a name change since it has the supposed derogatory name “squaw” in it. 
We were told that because the name comes from the Squawbush, a shrub plant, the word “squaw” is not considered 
derogatory. But the word “squaw” in Squaw Peak Dr. is derogatory? How interesting! So, the word “bush” nullifies the 
derogatory meaning of “squaw” but the word “peak” does not. Do you know how stupid and lame that sounds??  Especially 
since the Collins Dictionary online indicates that the word’s origin is so called from its use of the plant by Native Americans. If 
the Native Americans are not interested in the renaming of Squawbush Place also, how is there any validity in their claim in 
wanting to change the name of Squaw Peak Dr.? Let’s explore the meaning of what a double standard is: Definition - A double 
standard is the application of different sets of principles for situations that are, in principle, the same. It is often used to 
describe treatment whereby one group is given more latitude than another. We were fed a proverbial line of BULL! One name is 
derogatory but the other is not?? You can’t have it both ways. It’s either both names are derogatory or both names are not. So 
honestly, it’s all about getting Piestewa’s name on the street. From what I have heard in these meetings the consensus is in,  
and the residents will have no real say in the name. The Native Americans want Piestewa Peak Dr and that’s what you have 
intended to give them all along. You are even giving them their own separate meeting on August 11th, although the City’s 
street renaming policy only mentions the need for two meetings for residents.  Why the special treatment?  Do German 
Americans get a separate meeting?  Do Italian Americans get a separate meeting?  Do geologists who are concerned that it is 
called a “peak” and not a “mountain” get a separate meeting?  The Mayor and Council’s intent is pretty clear. The meetings are 
just smoke and mirrors. You all are just running cover. It’s pretty clear that the decision is a done deal. You say the decision 
won’t be until September. But all the explanations on how you will assist residents is a dead giveaway as to how this all will go. 
One Native American man last night thought that the word “squaw” had been taken out of most of the tribal ceremonies. etc. 
Tribal leaders better start checking their web sites and other written articles online. Because Squaw Dance, Squaw Bread and 
Squaw Dance music can easily be found on Native  American run sites.  There are explanations of the ceremonies, articles and 
Squaw Dance music that can be ordered. One lady read a definition of “squaw” that said it was a derogatory word towards 
Native American women.  I found the Webster Dictionary’s definition to say American Indian woman or wife.  So yes, you can 
find varying opinions and definitions. As one article said, the jury is still out on this issue. What is totally frustrating is the fact 
that residents have paid a premium for their property to live in the area adjacent to the preserve. And pay taxes to that affect. 
And put up with the huge volume of traffic on our street, most of which is speeding to and from the park.  And we are told that 
outsiders that do not live or have a financial investment on this street and neighborhood can come in and dictate their wishes 
on us and we have no say. [Well, you pretend to give us a say, but it appears it will be for nothing.] Honestly, would they like an 
outsider coming in and doing the same to them on their street and neighborhood? I think not!  Is our little street expected to 
pay the “price” for the early settlers encroaching on Native American’s land?  It appears that is the case.

S**** Peak Drive Submitted Comments - E-mail, Phone, Written, Web Comment Form
(Comments from residents of street or adjacent streets shaded in yellow at top and shaded in yellow)
E-mail submitted Aug. 
6
Opposed
No
I would like to know why Phoenix Department of Planning & Development has jumped on the stupid 
train, there is nothing wrong with the name Squaw Peak Drive, it is not derogatory in any way shape or 
form. Squaw is the name of a female Indian woman by many tribes, my daughter in-law is 100% Native 
American and grew up on the Yakima Reservation and is very proud of her heritage and is one of the 
very few who still speak the native language. People have got to stop being such big babies, and saying 
everything is offensive to them, learn diversity and stop conforming to others beliefs. It's okay to be 
different and think different, that's how it's supposed to be. And we are supposed to learn from each 
other and love each other. It makes no sense to change a street name that is called Squaw Peak Drive 
because some "one" person might be offended, yet we keep all the rap music on the radio that totally 
blasts every kind of person out there and has the F word every other word- and that's okay to keep on 
the radio? Do you see the idiocy in this? And you are playing right into it. 
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 6
No
To:  Mayor Gallego and City Council Members
DON’T CONFUSE THE NATIVE AMERICAN COMMUNITY’S CONCERN ABOUT GETTING RID OF THE 
“DEROGATORY” STREET NAME SQUAW PEAK DRIVE WITH THEIR FERVENT DESIRE AND PUSH TO GOAD 
YOU INTO GETTING THE STREET RENAMED PIESTEWA PEAK DRIVE.  It’s very apparent that is their 
underlying goal.  If the street must be renamed, that is one thing, but it doesn’t need to be Piestewa 
Peak Drive to solve the problem!  A mountain, freeway, and park already have Piestewa’s name.  She 
has been very well honored.  Enough is enough!!!
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 6. 
Identical comment 
submitted twice
In favor
PLEASE CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING NAMES IF SQUAW PEAK DRIVE MUST BE RENAMED:
MOUNTAIN PASS
SUNSET PLACE
DESERT SUNSET DR.
DESERT SAGE DR.
MOUNTAIN PASS
Sunset Place
Desert Sunset Dr
Desert Sage Dr.
Opposed
No
I have lived here all my life a Native Arizona  I DO NOT WANT AND I REPEAT  I do not want the name to 
change from Squaw Peak Drive. This is the most stupid thing you all have done in years.  Why oh Why 
can't you just leave history along.  I RTEPEAT DO NOT CHANGE THE NAME.
Comments delivered 
by phone Aug. 11
In favor
No
I am a member of the Navajo Tribe that has lived in the Vally for over 20 years.  Im very in favor of 
renaming the street. I really think that the “s” word needs to be changed for the sake of our children and 
generations coming up. This derogatory term is from long ago. For the sake of our Native women, this is 
a disrespectful name. Let’s change this to honor a fallen American Hero. 
Piestewa Peak Drive
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
In favor
No
I have lived in Arizona all my life. I love Arizona. I have a great respect for our Native Americans. The 
word Squaw is a slur, as I'm sure you know. With the renaming of the Peak, we have an opportunity to 
honor our Native heritage, as well as the first Native American female to fall in service to our country. As 
I said, I love our state. We can make it even better with changing the street name to fit the mountain 
name. As Terry Piestewa (Lori's father said, "This is our(community)  mountain."  Renaming the street 
would complete a great honor to our Native Americans, our military service and Arizona's heritage. The 
good far outweighs the bad. Thank you for your consideration--Ray Powell
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
In favor
No
Good afternoon,
My name is , President of Lulac Council 1191. I am also Latina and my ancestors are from the 
Tarahumara Tribe in Chihuahua, Mexico. I am also a Native to Arizona and have lived here all of my life.
I am certain that many of you in this council are aware of the historical facts and the dynamics of this 
state in regards to communities of color and our Indigenous communities. We also know that our 
veterans sometimes do not have the appropriate resources and the health care they deserve. We can 
never compensate our veterans enough for being in the front lines so that all of us who are not are 
peacefully at home. 
Naming the street "Piestewa Peak Drive" would honor, Lori Piestewa and also all of our veteran and 
military heroes. This would be an act from The City of Phoenix to express appreciation towards 
courageous men and women who represent us not only as a state but also as a diverse nation.
 I have to also say that I find the S name of this street demeaning and offensive to Native American 
women. I am uncertain as to why there is even a debate happening regarding this word when most of 
you on this panel are aware of the atrocities committed against our Indigenous brothers and sisters.  The 
name change is important as to also raise awareness that using terms that are offensive to Phoenix 
residents does not represent the City of Phoenix. On a positive note the name change will help visitors to 
know where to turn and how to get to Piestewa Peak . With this I thank you in advance for your time 
and have a wonderful day.
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
In favor
No
I'm writing in strong support for renaming both Squaw Peak Drive and Robert E. Lee Street. Native 
friends have told me for years that the word squaw (it bothers me to even type it), is considered 
offensive. I was thrilled when Piestewa Peak itself was renamed! I was so proud that our Arizona and 
Phoenix were acting in good faith for ALL their residents. The access drive to the peak parking lot now 
needs to be renamed, too. I favor Piestewa Peak (Rd, St, Dr, whatever) for consistency. I was 
flabbergasted to learn that there's a street in Phoenix named after the top general of the confederacy! 
Why here? Why would we honor a symbol of white supremacy? It's shameful, and that street should be 
renamed as well. Thank you for this opportunity to provide input on these issues.

S**** Peak Drive Submitted Comments - E-mail, Phone, Written, Web Comment Form
(Comments from residents of street or adjacent streets shaded in yellow at top and shaded in yellow)
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
Opposed
No
I am a senior citizen and grew up in Phoenix. I have lived in the Phoenix valley area since October 1957. I 
find it very difficult to start changing the names of so many things. I was born in Columbus, Ohio...some 
people want to rename my birthplace. However, since I do live here in the Phoenix area I want to 
comment on renaming Squaw Peck Drive. I do come to this section of town often. I wish you would just 
leave the name alone. However, since Phoenix has decided to change the name, please name it 
something I can pronounce and spell.
Peak Drive, Mountain Peak Drive, Desert Peak Drive are my suggestions.
Thank you...if you have read my comment
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
In favor
No
First, I will not be able to join the online meeting but, I feel my comment is important and does support 
the name change of S**** Peak to Piestewa Peak Drive in honor of a fallen female Warrior. In the 
Navajo culture and tradition babies are given spiritual names in addition to their American name. The 
traditional name given to the female is "Bah" which is given in great regard that women are Life Givers 
and protectors of life which is observed with integrity and great respect. She is the female Warrior, the 
foundation of her clan. With this teaching in mind I submit that this peak is renamed and honored with 
Piestewa Peak Drive. 
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
N o
If you still plan to force changing the name of Squaw Peak Drive, please choose from one of these 
names:
MOUNTAIN PASS; DESERT SUNSET DR.; DESERT SAGE DR.; SUNSET PLACE;
I’m a long-time resident of Phoenix and do not want anything else named Piestewa!  
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
In favor
No
The current name for the street S**** Peak Drive is VERY offensive to Native Americans and would like 
to see it changed to Piestewa Peak Dr. The street leads to the mountain and so it only makes sense to 
change it to Piestewa Peak Dr.
Please consider and thank you! 
 
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
In favor
No
The current name for the street S**** Peak Drive is very belittling to the Native American women and 
the Mountain has already been changed to Piestewa Peak therefore the street should be change in 
honor of the mountain and the hero that it is named after who gave her ALL for our freedom. 
Thank you for considering this. 
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
In favor
No
I am Dine, an indigenous woman of the Navajo. I fully support the name change of this street. In my 
family and community the S-word is one of the worst words one can use. It is regarded as worse than 
four letter words because it is was a term used historically to justify the rape, kidnap, and traumatization 
of indigenous women and children. It is a dehumanizing term. It is toxic and has no place being used to 
usher people into a community, especially one that stands adjacent to a landmark named in honor of an 
indigenous woman warrior. Anytime this term is used it perpetuates terrible acts used against 
indigenous women and children today – the same indigenous community members who are going 
missing and found murdered in the thousands every year. Reading this term on a street sign is not 
passive – it incites recent memories of pain, trauma, and the core of genocide. It glorifies horrendous 
acts and is not a word I want to see on any sign signifying a community in this valley. This community 
needs signage that reflects a community of integrity, one that honors the land it stands on – that which 
was built on the original territory of indigenous tribes, and that tells the world it is taking a stance 
against usage of terms that harm others. I urge the council to change the name of the street to Piestewa 
Peak Drive and am relieved to know that the council will take on costs of this renaming process. 
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
TO THE NATIVE AMERICANS:
If your goal was to change the street name to remove a name you believe is offensive, you have likely 
achieved that goal since the mayor and city council have started the renaming process.  Once this is 
done, for most of you and others who OCCASIONALLY drive down this street on the way to the Park, the 
name issue will be forgotten in a heartbeat, but for residents of this tiny street, we must deal with the 
name ON A DAILY  BASIS FROM NOW ON. ---
So now let the residents, who will be dealing with the name every time they must give out their address 
to someone when placing a mail order, or arranging for in-home service, or paying bills, and a myriad of 
other things, let them choose a street name that they are comfortable with. ---
You’ve made it clear that you want the name to be Piestewa Peak Drive (which may have been your real 
intention to start with).  But Lori has already been honored in at least 3 ways here in Phoenix, once on 
the Hopi Reservation, and in many other places around the United States.  Tagging yet another item with 
the Piestewa name is not necessary to see that she has been honored and it will only cause confusion, 
not only because of the Piestewa Freeway that is just blocks away, but also because it is hard to spell 
and hard to pronounce.  Of course, it also DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS listed in the City’s Street 
Renaming Policy. ---
I realize many of you on this call probably live in the metro-Phoenix area, but I’m sure still have ties to 
your reservation.  We don’t tell you what to name your streets or roads on your reservation, so just as 
we have compassion for your past history (yes, we really do), have a little compassion for us and let us 
choose any new name. ---
TO THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS:
We , the residents, DID NOT name this street.  Though there is still reason to question whether the name 
needs to be changed, please don’t use our little street as the token to pay the “price” for the early 
settlers encroaching on Native American’s land, or because Native Americans think we were 
inappropriately defining the word “squaw” to mean something other than what dictionaries ORIGINALLY 
said was the stated definition of the word, which was not derogatory.  LET US CHOOSE THE NEW NAME 
FOR THE STREET, WHICH NEEDS TO BE SOMETHING OTHER THAN PIESTEWA.

S**** Peak Drive Submitted Comments - E-mail, Phone, Written, Web Comment Form
(Comments from residents of street or adjacent streets shaded in yellow at top and shaded in yellow)
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
LORI PIESTEWA HAS BEEN HONORED IN MANY WAYS THROUGHOUT ARIZONA AND THE U.S.  WE DO 
NOT NEED TO NAME A STREET AFTER HER…THE CITY OF PHOENIX HAS ALREADY SHOWN RESPECT AND 
APPRECIATION IN NUMEROUS WAYS FOR HER SACRIFICE.  SHE HAS ALREADY BEEN HONORED AS 
FOLLOWS:
XXXX [1] Arizona's state government renamed Squaw Peak in the Phoenix Mountains near Phoenix as 
Piestewa Peak and this was codified by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names on April 10, 2008;XXXX [2] 
The freeway that passes near this mountain was also renamed in her honor. XXXX In addition, Senator 
Tom Daschle honored her, as did Indian Nations across the United States. XXXX Since her death, the 
Grand Canyon State Games organizers have held an annual Lori Piestewa National Native American 
Games, which brings participants from across the country. XXXX A plaque bearing her name is also 
located at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico and Fort Bliss, Texas. XXXX She has also been 
memorialized with a plaque and ceremony at Mount Soledad Veterans Memorial in La Jolla, California. 
XXXX On November 10, 2011, American Legion Post No. 80 on the Hopi Reservation was renamed the 
Lori Piestewa Post # 80.  XXXX On November 30, 2011, the Directorate of Training Sustainment 
headquarters at Fort Benning, Georgia was named Piestewa Hall in her honor.
XXXX Her death led to a rare joint prayer gathering between members of the Hopi and Navajo tribes, 
which have had a centuries-old rivalry.  XXXX
In May 2005, Piestewa's parents and children had a brand-new home built by Ty Pennington and his 
crew on ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition accompanied by Jessica Lynch. They also built a new 
veterans' center on the Navajo reservation.  
XXXX In 2018, Piestewa became one of the inductees in the first induction ceremony held by the 
National Native American Hall of Fame.
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
If your decision is to change the name of Squaw Peak Drive, please consider the following for the name 
of our street.  They do not appear to exist in Phoenix:
FOOTHILLS WAY or FOOTHILLS ST. (VERY fitting for the area at the base of the mountains);
GATEWAY PASS (the street serves as a gateway to the park and preserve);
IRONWOOD PLACE (fits in nicely with the desert area and the nearby Ocotillo Rd.); 
MOUNTAIN TRAIL or MOUNTAIN TRAIL DR. (descriptive of the short route up to the hiking trails); 
HILL STREET (we’re at the base of the peak); 
AMERICAN WAY (needs no explanation);
COYOTE CROSSING (we do see them crossing this area).
FOOTHILLS WAY or 
FOOTHILLS ST. 
GATEWAY PASS
IRONWOOD PLACE 
MOUNTAIN TRAIL or 
MOUNTAIN TRAIL DR. 
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
To Mayor and City Council:  If you force the name change for Squaw Peak Drive, please choose from one 
of these names:
IRONWOOD PLACE;
FOOTHILLS WAY or FOOTHILLS ST.;
HILL STREET;
GATEWAY PASS;
MOUNTAIN TRAIL or MOUNTAIN TRAIL DR.;
AMERICAN WAY;
COYOTE CROSSING.
FOOTHILLS WAY or 
FOOTHILLS ST. 
GATEWAY PASS
IRONWOOD PLACE 
MOUNTAIN TRAIL or 
MOUNTAIN TRAIL DR. 
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
Opposed
These meetings over the past few weeks are nothing more than optics. THE DECISION HAS ALREADY 
BEEN MADE BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL!. The statement being said that IF they decide to do the 
name change it will be made in September is false. There is no IF, they WILL do it. What better optics for 
an election year. This will be decided before the election. Regardless of your view on whether the name 
should be changed or not, we have been used as political pawns. Politically it will look great in the news. 
VOTES!  Appease the Native American community so they will vote for you.  Too few residents of the 
street to be concerned about their votes.
There are two other streets in the metro area that also have the word “squaw” in them, but are being 
ignored. One is supposedly a private street in the Biltmore area named Squaw Peak Circle and the other 
not a private street, Squawbush Dr in the metro area. Mario in last week’s meeting said that the city 
supposedly has no jurisdiction over the private street to change its name even though the development 
is within the city and likely receives city services. If you look at the City’s Naming Process document for 
streets, it states that the City’s Planning and Development Department staff “works with developer to 
revise names when necessary”.  So it appears the city DOES have jurisdiction (and responsibility) to 
change the name of Squaw Peak Circle if Squaw is derogatory.  He also said that because Squawbush Dr 
was named after a bush it did not fall into the category of being derogatory. Excuse me! Double 
standard!!! The squaw bush or squaw berry bush. The Native Americans used the squaw berry primarily 
as a medicine. This is from an article in the American Indian health and diet project.  It got its name back 
in the early 1800s because it was used by Native Americans.  I’m not attacking Mario, I am just stating 
what my understanding is of what he referenced as the city’s excuse for why these streets are not also 
targeted. 
In all three city meetings on this issue there were roughly 37 call ins total between all three meetings. I 
am sure there have been some write in comments also. But in a city with a population of roughly 1.7 
million people, that’s a meager consensus of Phoenicians’ opinions on this issue. But then again it was 
not widely published, probably because of the fire storm that then Governor Janet Napolitano started 
when she decided she had the power to go against policy and change the name of the peak when she 
knew she was over stepping her authority
So other streets with the name “squaw” in it get a pass but our street does not because of the peak. I 
assume the other streets are not “high profile” enough No optics! We are being muscled out of the

S**** Peak Drive Submitted Comments - E-mail, Phone, Written, Web Comment Form
(Comments from residents of street or adjacent streets shaded in yellow at top and shaded in yellow)
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
Opposed
Yes
I live on Squaw Peak Dr and my husband and I attended all 3 public meetings.  After the 3rd meeting It 
struck me that there is a planned narrative from all of those that support the name change.  Over the 3 
meetings all but 3 speakers immediately followed their comment, that they found Squaw offensive, with 
“and I want the street name Piestewa Drive”.  This is NOT an issue of Squaw being offensive, but rather 
an initiate to get the street name changed to Piestewa  (the poor attendance At the 3rd meeting for just 
the Indian community And the 1,147 business in Arizona with the word Squaw in their name, supports 
this theory)
I BEG you do not give in to a small minority and change my street name.  And I expect you to give 
deference to those that actually LIVE on the street.   Keeping our history intact is important to me.
But if you do, please, PLEASE do not change it to include Piestawa.  It’s too long, no one knows how to 
spell it, And I find it offensive in that it only recognizes one faction of our diverse society.  Lori Piestewa 
has a mountain, a park and a freeway named after her.  Let that be enough.  
My vote If you do not have enough integrity to keep the name the same - Peak Drive  Thank you for your 
consideration.  Amy Klawitter
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 11
Oppposed
The original renaming of Squaw Peak was done illegally [ignored federal regulations] by former mayor 
Janet Napolitano.  In 2017, Phoenix City Council went against the area’s residents who followed city 
policy and obtained more than a 75% majority of homeowners who wished to keep the current street 
name, so the council changed the policy, eliminating further the rights of the citizens.  If street name is 
to be changed now, area residents should have the right to propose names and select the name to be 
used for renaming.  Choice of names should not be at the whim of the Council.
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 12
“Piestewa Peak Drive” does not meet the city’s own criteria in their revised street naming policy which 
states “names should be short, easy to pronounce, easy to spell” and “be sufficiently distinct from 
existing street names”.  This would put Piestewa Peak Drive just blocks away from the existing Piestewa 
Freeway.  Choose a different name to avoid confusion.  Lori Piestewa has already been appropriately 
honored with the renaming of the mountain, park, and freeway.
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 12
I QUESTION THE NEED TO CHANGE THE NAME OF SQUAW PEAK DRIVE SINCE:
There is NO CONSENSUS among the Native American community regarding whether or not “squaw” is 
offensive.  For example:
 •Read the March 2017 arƟcle in Indian Country Today Ɵtled “Squaw” Offensive or Not – The Jury Is SƟll 
Out.
 •The Dine’ (Navajo) sƟll perform the Squaw Dance as part of their religious ceremonies
 •My hairdresser is a Pima Indian – she hikes the Peak – and says use of “squaw” is not a big deal and 
thinks all of this is a big waste of time, energy and money.
The proposed name of “Piestewa Peak Drive” does not meet street renaming criteria which requires:
 •“the name cannot be used anywhere else in the Phoenix metropolitan area” and that
 •“names should be short, easy to pronounce, easy to spell” and
 •“be sufficiently disƟnct from exisƟng street names”
 oPiestewa Peak Drive is not a short name, is confusing for many to pronounce and is definitely not easy 
to spell
 oIt is also not sufficiently disƟnct from the exisƟng Piestewa Freeway that is only blocks away from the 
street to be renamed.
 oGiven these facts, it should be removed from the choice of names to be considered.
 oThis should not be harmful since Lori Piestewa has been greatly honored by the renaming of the 
mountain that now has her name, the park that has her name, and the freeway that is also named in her 
honor.
IF name change is forced on residents, 
 •Residents should have right to establish choices for street name
 •Residents should decide final name that they must live with
 •Some suggested names include:
 oSunset Place
 oMountain Pass
 oDesert Sage Drive
 oDesert Sunset Drive.
Do outside influences have more rights than the affected residents? It appears so
Sunset Place
Mountain Pass
Desert Sage Drive
Desert Sunset Drive
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 12
I understand why the City of Phoenix wants to rename the street named Squaw Peak Dr. This street was 
named many years ago before any of the residents owned their property. What I would like the City 
Council to do is let the property owners, on this short street, have a say in the new name THAT THEY 
HAVE TO LIVE WITH!I have lived in the Phoenix area for more than 60 years. I attended a Phoenix 
elementary school, Phoenix high school and Phoenix colleges. I am a Phoenix property owner. I have 
friends that live on Squaw Peak Drive. It would be such a wonderful gesture to allow the owners on 
Squaw Peak Drive to rename their street. Have the property owners submit a few names for the city to 
approve, then have the property owners, that are affected, vote on the final selection. 
I personally would just drop the word "Squaw" and rename the street "Peak Drive". Make it simple!

S**** Peak Drive Submitted Comments - E-mail, Phone, Written, Web Comment Form
(Comments from residents of street or adjacent streets shaded in yellow at top and shaded in yellow)
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 12
In favor
Please help  restore the dignity and pride of the Native-American culture by taking away this despicable 
title for a holy, sacred site. In times of the Hohokam when 10 villages and hundreds of miles of canals 
watered this peaceful Eden this mountain was the Sacred Woman's Mountain, a place to climb and give 
thanks and blessings for our children, daughters, wives, grandmothers. It remains holy today still a place 
to free your mind of daily emotional tolls we all deal with, a place to contemplate Mother Nature and all 
her beauty. Take away this racist, disgraceful slur and restore the respect our city deserves, respect for 
all and dignity for the oldest culture of our beloved nation.
Honoring Confederate Generals demeans the lives lost to preserve our nation, the rebels desperately 
sought to destroy the government of the people by the people to keep their wealth which relied on the 
slavery and inhumanity of our fellow human beings trapped and lost in this cruel practice. We should 
honor those who gave their lives to preserve this nation though imperfect and still evolving to a more 
just society for all. America still represents freedom and justice, our public statues should present and 
proudly honor these values so dearly paid for by true patriots.
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 14
MOUNTAIN PASS or MOUNTAIN PASS PL.;
GATEWAY PASS;
MOUNTAIN TRAIL or MOUNTAIN TRAIL DR.;
FOOTHILLS WAY or FOOTHILLS ST.;
SUNSET PLACE;
Please choose from one of these street names if the council is dead-set on changing the name of Squaw 
Peak Drive:
DESERT SUNSET DR. or DESERT SUNSET PL.;
IRONWOOD PLACE;
DESERT SAGE DR. or DESERT SAGE PL.;
HILL STREET;
AMERICAN WAY;
COYOTE CROSSING.
MOUNTAIN PASS or 
MOUNTAIN PASS PL.
GATEWAY PASS
MOUNTAIN TRAIL or 
MOUNTAIN TRAIL DR.
FOOTHILLS WAY or 
FOOTHILLS ST.;
SUNSET PLACE;
DESERT SUNSET;
IRONWOOD PLACE;
DESERT SAGE DR. or 
DESERT SAGE PL.;
HILL STREET;
AMERICAN WAY;
COYOTE CROSSING
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 17
In favor
No
In today’s climate, everyone is encouraged to speak out and voice their convictions regarding numerous 
issues. Considering these actions, it is time to stop disrespecting the indigenous people, particularly 
those in our native state of Arizona. As an original member of the Piestewa Committee, now known as 
Piestewa Fallen Heroes Memorial Committee, I stand behind the Native American people and all of 
those in support of the name change from S**** Peak to Piestewa Peak Drive. As a community, we 
strive to teach our children to respect and honor each other –let us reflect on this and do the right thing, 
putting any political issues aside. Together, let us honor the ultimate sacrifice made by Lori Piestewa for 
this great nation.  
Web comment 
submitted Aug. 4
In favor
No
I am very happy to hear that these streets will be renamed. Squaw Peak was renamed Piestewa Peak 
nearly 20 years ago, the street rename is long overdue. We should never have had a street named 
Robert E Lee and renaming that street is even longer overdue. I am grateful to live in a city that is willing 
to work for a better future for everyone.

July 30 S**** Peak Drive Community Web Forum Participants with comments
(Residents that live or adjacent to street highlighted in yellow)
Are you in favor of 
street renaming  
Live on or adjacent 
to street
Comments  
Name suggestions
Opposed
Yes
Speaker comments: Lived on SP Drive for 51 years. We object to the renaming. Coun. 
DiCiccio did not contact us on this issue. Voted against us. People already think the name 
has been changed. I wonder if councilmembers have driven this intersection and what 
they saw as the street name. We had delivery people struggle to find our street. If our 
street is renamed, we can say that to respond to racism we renamed  a street that is three 
blocks long. 
Opposed
Yes
Speaker comments: You're the messengers....apologize for the anger your hearing from 
me tonight. I'm adamantly opposed to this. A number of residents are really irritated. I've 
confirmed this is response to racial justice demonstrations. I don't see how renaming has 
anything to do with social justice. Please don't confuse doing something with doing the 
right thing. City council and city leaders encumbent upon them to identify the causes of 
racism and address them. That's not an easy problem to solve. Don't take the easy option 
by renaming street. This process is unfair to residents...the meetings are open to anyone, 
who can drown out residents. But you have a special meeting for another group.  I've 
researched the history or Lori Piestewa's death. I can't imagine anything more 
controversial than changing the name to Piestewa.
Comment submitted with registration: 1.)  Based on discussion with City Council 
In favor
Yes
Speaker comments: I want to thank the City Council for taking on this issue. I know it's 
going to be contentious. I may be in the minority on my street. I love my street and 
neighbors. The name of the street is cringe worthy. I'm firmly in favor of a change.  Change 
is hard, but so is going the right thing. A change to either Piestewa or Peak Drive is a step 
in the right direction I'd be honored to leave on Piestewa Peak Drive
Peak Drive
Piestewa Peak Drive
Opposed
Yes
Written comments were sent separately.  Spoken comments at web forum: I thought our 
names would be protected, and they're not. We had to chase the postman to get our 
certified letter. 35 year of this area. I'm not in favor of the name change. I have a lot of 
respect for the Native American community and even they differ on if s**** is offensive. 
Indian Country Media had a story on that community within Native American community. 
Dine still have a s**** dance, a relgious ceremony, yet there's a problem with the name of 
our street. Many other streets are named S**** too, why are they exempt. Dictionary 
definitions also do not show the word to be derogatory. Piestewa Peak does not meet city 
renaming criteria. Name can't be used anywhere else...name should be short and distinct. 
Piestewa peak is not short and confusing to announce and spell and not sufficiently 
distinct from Piestewa Freeway. That should be removed from choice of alternate names. 
Sunset Drive
Ironwood Drive
Opposed
Yes
Comment submitted in writing with registration: Just leave it. Save Money and time
Opposed
Yes
Comment submitted in writing with registration: S**** is not offensive. 15 year resident, 
and like many others there will be many burdens to change personal documents. The 
mountain is already dedicated to Mrs Piestewa , why cant that be enough?"
In favor
Yes
Comment submitted with registration: Piestewa Peak Drive
Piestewa Peak Drive
End of resident comments
In favor
No
Speaker comments (reiterating written comments submitted separately by e-mail): I want 
to go on record supporting Piestewa Peak Drive. Explained his family has resided in 
Phoenix for more than 50 years, the past 20 years in a home near the base of Piestewa 
Peak Mountain. As one of the original members of the Arizona Piestewa Committee, I 
herewith join the many others who recommend changing the name of "S**** Peak Drive" 
to "PIESTEWA PEAK DRIVE", as reflected in the three main reasons documented and 
submitted to the Phoenix City Council by the "Arizona For Piestewa Committee".  Hence, 
the public street leading to the Piestewa Peak Mountain should be named after the 
mountain, as it is the only road/street that leads directly to Piestewa Peak Mountain. It's 
always good to give name to a street that has meaning.  So many have died for the 
freedom we have today. Indian School Road was named that way because it led to the 
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Piestewa Peak Drive
Opposed
No
Comment submitted with registration: I'm a native and grew up in the foothills of "S**** 
Peak". Retired city employee. I was always proud to be a city resident and work for the 
city. I really believed we were the best run city. I've struggled to get people on the phone 
over the past 3-4 months. I relate that to the fact that the city suffered due to a lack of 
funding. Police Dept. is underfunded by hundreds of officers. With that underfunding, i 
look at the costs to change the name off a small street. Why spend the money to do that? 
Changing our addresses is major, daunting task, especially for those in my age bracked. 
this is not productive for a city in financial trouble with costs of protests and damage done 
by them This is a ridiculous waste of money You're working for a small minority Most

July 30 S**** Peak Drive Community Web Forum Participants with comments
(Residents that live or adjacent to street highlighted in yellow)
Opposed
No
Comment submitted with registration: Leave as is
In favor
No
Comment submitted with registration: I live at the base of Piestewa Peak and would like to 
see the road renamed to ""Piestewa Peak Drive"""
Piestewa Peak Drive
In favor
No
Comment submitted with registration: Humble Way
Triple Crown Way"
Humble Way 
Triple Crown Way
Opposed
No
Speaker comments: I'm  opposed to the renaming. I'm a resident. In 2017 Mayor Stanton 
brought this up and the first we heard of it was a newspaper article. After residents 
contacted the city, we had three days notice of a meeting. City's policy required majority 
of residents to agree, so they changed the policy to take our rights away. The whole 
process has been deceitful. I don't understand why it was done this way. The word 
In favor
No
Comment submitted with registration: The year the mountain was renamed, the street

Aug. 5 S**** Peak Web Forum Participants with comments
(Residents that live on or adjacent to street highlighted in yellow)
Are you in 
favor of 
street 
renaming  
Live on or 
adjacent to 
street?
Comments  
Alternate name 
suggestions
Opposed
Yes
Comment submitted at registration: My husband and I have lived on S*** Peak Drive for 51 
years and are adamantly opposed to renaming the street. My question tonight is when will 
we see the answers to our questions, where are you as a councilmember, why did you not 
talk to us as councilmembers on July 1. How do you justify the attack on S**** Peak Drive 
and not on S**** Peak Circle and S**** Bush Place. City taxes are paid for both of these 
streets. Have all nine councilmembers driven the intersection. How can you rename the 
street when the vote must be unanimous. My last comment is about two Native American 
men who contacted residents two years ago. He walked door to door and pleaded with us 
Yes
Opposed
Yes
Comment submitted at registration: I will add to what Rick said. I took 30 seconds to look in 
the white pages and saw found 1,100 businesses with the name S**** in it. If the word 
s**** is offensive to everyone, I hardly think these businesses would be in business.I also 
regularly attend business events at the S**** Peak Hilton and they are overly attended.I 
think it's ridiculous that the City Council is allowing the tail to wag the dog. This is not a 
solution. We asked the councilmembers for their comprehensive plan to fight racism and 
how this fits into it and how this is going to racial inequality and how it will improve our city. 
They specifically told us "this is the plan." They have no plan...this is it. I don't want to 
reward the City Council for their inactivity. They're bamboozling citizens into thinking 
they're doing their job. Since the city changed the policy to keep residents from having the 
name they want, I knew this day was inevitable. Under no circumstances should the name 
have anything racially motivated. There are 21 tribes in this state, why they would put 
Peak Drive
Opposed
Yes
Speaker comments: I have contacted mayor and all council members and have met with two 
so far. I conveyed that I think this is a reaction to social justice movements. City employees 
have convinced themselves that the works S**** is offensive. The idea that the word is 
offensive to all Native Americans is dubious at best. If S Peak Drive is renamed, do we really 
think that will end racism? If so, how many streets will need to be renamed? With playing 
the victim, there is always something else to offend. Let's stop this nonsense now and get to 
work on identifying the root causes of racism in our community. 
In favor
Yes
In favor
No
In favor
No
Comment submitted at registration: I'm strongly in support of renamning S**** Peak Drive 
to Piestewa Peak Drive. Lori Piestewa, and AZ native, sets the example of serving our great 
nation with bravery, integrity and spirit. It is a racial remark to say S**** Peak to a great 
many people, not just a few, so it should be eradicated. The name is offensive to a lot of 
people. This is not political thing...they have been trying to rename the street for many 
years now. She is a hero and people that think it's wrong to rename a peak in her honor 
need to rething their values. As for renaming the businesses, hopefully that is forthcoming. 
IF they were using a different derogatory work such as the "n" word, I think people would 
think differently. If someone is offended, we should walk in that person's shoes. Renaming is 
happening in many places...the NFL. This would be a great honor for Lori and her family. 
Piestewa Peak 
Drive

Aug. 5 S**** Peak Web Forum Participants with comments
(Residents that live on or adjacent to street highlighted in yellow)
In favor
No
Speaker comments: My family has lived in the shadow of Piestewa Peak for r30 years now 
and I regularly hike the area. I am in support of changing the name to Piestewa Peak Drive. 
We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to give the street a truly meaningful name that 
would honor not only Lori Piestewa but honor the sacrifices of all our fallen heros and the 
sacrifices of all our veterans. The memorial sign at the trail states that by honoring one hero, 
we are honoring all the miliary heros and raise awareness . This would be a monument to 
show hikers were to turn to get to Piestewa Peak. My family, which is half Navajo, considers 
the name to be hurtful and pejorative toward Native Americans. Changing the name would 
also eliminate an inconsistency in the city's designation of the peak and park.  Written 
comments submitted with registration: As a homeowner at the base of Piestewa Peak for 30 
years and a frequent hiker of the mountain, I urge City Council to change the name of 
“S**** Peak Drive” to “Piestewa Peak Drive."""
Piestewa Peak 
Drive
In favor
No
Opposed
No
Comment submitted at registration: I strongly oppose keeping the name as S**** Peak 
Drive. Member of LULAC. The dictionary definition of the word it is derogatory and shows 
that the person is less worthy. I have with me a tribal member in Az named Vanessa. Switch 
in speakers: My name is Vanessa and I'm a member of GRIC. To change the name to Lori 
Piestewa would honor her. The freeway and mountain were changed, so why not the road. 
It's honoring her, Native Amercians and veterans. Original speaker: She says they do have 
basket dances but they do not have S**** dances and she should know as a member of the 
GRIC. Vanessa:...a s**** is considered like a female prostitute. It would be hurtful for 
someone to call me that o my face. Original speaker: name change would serve as a 
landmark and be consistent with highway and mountain. We want visitors to be proud and 
the word is hurtful and offensive and we should remove words that are offensive to all 
communities.
Piestewa Peak 
Drive
No
In favor
No
In favor
No
In favor
No
In favor
No
Spoken comments at the meeting: I spoke at the first meeting a week ago because my 
family has resided in Phoenix for 50 years. For the past 20, I've lived near the base of 
Piestewa Peak. For the record, I'm African American and there few African Americans live in 
the area in which I live. Every morning I see that mountain when I go to get my paper and 
for most of the past years I've seen it named S**** Peak. I was pleased that Gov. Napolitano 
moved to change the name. I want to offer my support to change the name of the street to 
Piestewa Peak Drive. The public street leading to the Piestewa Peak Mountain should be 
named after the mountain, as it is the only road/street that leads directly to Piestewa Peak 
Mountain. It's always good to give name to a street that has meaning.  So many have died 
for the freedom we have today. Indian School Road was named that way because it led to 
the school campus. Camelback is named for the street it leads to. So it's logical to name the 
street that leads directly to the mountain after the mountain itself. It's always good to give a 
name that has meaning. The word is offensive just like the "N" word has been offensive to 
me all of these years. Those that claim it is not should serve in the capacity I've served these 
80 years. The change has to start somewhere, let's start here. 
Piestewa Peak 
Drive

Aug. 5 S**** Peak Web Forum Participants with comments
(Residents that live on or adjacent to street highlighted in yellow)
In favor
No
Comment submitted at registration: I'm an Arizona Native America, veteran, a U.S. Army 
lieutenant. I'm an ASU grad. I'm the former arts editor for Indian Country Today. My boss at 
Indian Country Today was Tim Gallego, a nephew of Chief Crazy Horse. Some of the words 
we considered offensive included the word "s***" The S**** Dance and S**** Bread were 
descriptions while people gave, that is not the Indian name for the ceremony or the bread. 
We have Native against White in terms of integrity. Our integrity needs to be listened to. We 
volunteer and serve our country. I've heard people say they lived here for 50 years, our 
people have lived here for thousands of years and we want to have our own respect. The 
derogatory names that are part of the colonial dominance to native culture has been part of 
the problem. We didn't name those, we have our own names for those. It's time for respect. 
I understand the concerns of the people that live there and the pains to get their addresses 
changed. Think about the pain we've gone through while we were invaded by the White 
people. We've made peace with that, we are part of this country and we demand to be part 
of the respect of the country. Piestewa itself means the puddle left after a rainstorm. Lori 
comes from a culture of the Hopi, the Dine, not Navajo -- and Spanish. She encompasses a 
lot of the culture of the Southwest. By honoring Lori, you're honoring much of the culture 
that has not been respected, and it's about time. The burden has been on the Native nation 
not on the White nation. Think about the names we have to change because they were part 
of the invaders to us. 
Piestewa Peak Dr
Opposed
No
Speaker comments: I'm a ten-year resident and I oppose the street renaming. In 2017 a 
majority of residents could oppose a street name change. Mayor Stanton changed the policy 
to cut residents out and gave the mayor and council sole authority. It was so important that 
the issue sat idle for three years. We are expected to change the name of S**** Peak Drive 
while Native Americans still perform the S**** Dance as part of a religious ceremony and 
they still make s**** bread. We're all being held hostage by a small very vocal group that 
don't necessarily speak for the entire First Nation. If they thought it was so demeaning, they 
would not continue to use the name in their ceremonies or other aspects of their culture 
especially since many AZ tribes are matriarchal e.g. the Navajo, Hope and Pima. If this issue 
had merit, Native Americans should first deal with it in their own ceremonies.  This just 
looks like political pandering and appeasement. 
In favor
No
Comment submitted with registration: Piestewa Peak Drive
Piestewa Peak 
Opposed
No
In favor
No
Comment submitted with registration: I like Piestewa Peak Drive.
Piestewa Peak 
In favor
No
No
Opposed
No
Comment submitted with registration: Native Phoenician and I've lived in this area most of 
my life. I understand and respect everything said. I agree with the residents and I don't think 
we should be sanitizing our history. But if we do I'm going to campaign to honor a native 
son, Charles Keating IV, the first Navy Seal to be killed in action. He was 31 and a member of 
a quick response force and he became the third American service member to die fighting 
the Islamic State. Charlie was born and raised her and graduated from Arcadia High and 
could frequently be found hiking and running the trails. We have a lot of support from the 
Navy Seal community but also the community at large. 
Charles Keating 
IV

Aug. 5 S**** Peak Web Forum Participants with comments
(Residents that live on or adjacent to street highlighted in yellow)
In favor
No
Comment submitted with registration: I'm Ginger Sykes Torres. I want everyone to know I'm 
a Dine, an enrolled member of the Navajo Tribe. I'm a former world champion hoop dancer, 
a graduate of Stanford University. I do a lot of volunteering in the community and my kids 
attend school very close to the street we're discussing. I believe it is time to change the 
street name. It is late, but it is not too late to make things right with the American Indian 
Community. We are doing no favors to the Native AMerican community by keeping the 
name as is. Even if there are some not offended by it, there more in the Valley that are 
offended by it. Changing the name that leads to the mountain is particularly important to 
my family.  I have three young kids that live within a mile of that street and we hike that 
area. My daughter will someday realize what that name is and means and she'll ask me what 
that means and what the significance is. I worry that she'll feel shameful what the actual 
meaning is. It portrays a caricature of a Native American woman in a shameful way and I 
don't want her to feel that. I feel for the neighbors that have to go through the pain and 
annoyance of all the paperwork. It is a hassle, but people move all the time. Think about the 
community you live and how to make it better and healthier and how we can live together 
in harmony. Want to take pride in my city, member of the Environmental Commission. This 
is a heavily used area. It should reflect our values as a city. Encourage the residents to think 
of it from a different point of view. 
Opposed
No
Comment submitted at registration: I question the need to change the name of S**** Peak 
Drive since there is no consensus in the Native American Community whether s**** is 
offensive. This was outlined in the March 2017 issues of Indian Country Today titled "S**** 
Peak. Offensive or Not? The Jury is Still Out." The Dine or Navajo still perform the S**** 
dance as part of their religious ceremonies. My hairdress is a Pima that hikes the peak and 
she said the use of s**** is not a big deal and thnks all of this is a big waste of time. The 
proposed name Piestewa Peak Drive does not meet the city's name standards that requires 
the name not be used anywhere else and that the name should be short and easy to 
pronounce and be sufficiently distinct. Piestewa Peak Drive doesn't meet these 
requirements with Piestewa Freeway being just feet away. This shouldn't be harmful as Lori 
Piestew has been greatly honored by the naming of the mountain. If the renaming is going 
to be forced on residents, they should have the right to establish the new name and the 
name they'll have to live with going forward. Why has the council not be involved in these 
meetings... not even our councilman. I urge the council to rethink this plan. 
Sunset Place
Mountain Pass
Desert Sage
Desert Sunset
No
In favor
No
Speaker comments: I want to thank the City Council members for giving us the opportunity 
to speak about this. I'm in favor of the change and strongly support the name of Piestewa 
Peak Drive. I think for non-native people to talk about whether the name is offensive is a 
joke. We cannot, as non-native people, decide what is offensive. We are moving toward 
greater compassion, awareness and understanding in this city and state. The name was 
chosen at a time when people of color were fighting for their rights to show them where 
their place was. These actions cannot contradict the movement forward. As for the so-called 
difficulty of pronouncing Piestewa, think of what it woudl be like to be Native American and 
saying that name. I applaud you all that are standing up for this. 
Piestewa Peak 
Drive
Opposed
No
Opposed
No
No

Aug. 11 S**** Peak Drive Community Web Forum Participants with comments
(Residents that live or adjacent to the street highlighed in yellow)
Live on or 
adjacent to 
street?
Are you in 
favor of street 
renaming  
Please list your renaming idea(s) or any comments  
Name suggestions
Yes
No
Speaker comment: You know, for the most part for me,  these meeting have been a little bit optics in a 
way. I feel the decision is already been made, there's no if as to whether the street name is gonna 
change. It's  gonna change in September. It's just a matter of what the name is going to be. I just feel in 
an election year it's a little but politically motivated. I think if they are going to go thru this process, I 
think it would have been a little more fair to do it after the first of the year. I just feel it's political and 
great news worthy stuff for votes. The thing that frsutrates me and we had Mario kind of explained it 
last week, the analogy of what the City felt about two other street names, so I'm not attacking you 
Mario,please, but there's two other streets with the name Squaw in it. One is a private street and 
supposedly the other one is a metro street in a residential area. They both got the word Squaw in them. 
One is Squaw Bush and we were told that the private street you have no say over it. Squaw Bush, 
because it's the name of a bush, it kind of wasn't considered derogatory. I just find that ridiculous. It's a 
double standard. If the word Squaw is truly derogatory, then you should be going after every street in 
the City that's got that name in there. I mean there's no two ways around it. It just boggles my mind 
that they're not targeted also. You know, this is a beautiful area to live in. The residents paid a premium 
to have property in this area and they pay taxes to that affect. We also put up with a high volume of 
cars racing up down the street to the park at times and also the overflow of cars parking on the street 
from the park. We get a huge overflow sometimes when there's busy weekends. Driveways can be 
obstructed making exiting driveways difficult and hazardous. Some weeks we have multiple days with 
emergency vehicles running up and down the park. So, we kind of feel tha you know as the residents, 
we should really have the say in what the name will be and not what outsiders who periodically visit the 
park or drive by think it should be. I don't know, I'm just frustrated. I had big lond thing that would've 
taken 3 minutes to read and I decided not to go that far. But, seriously, if your gonna go after the word 
Yes
No
Speaker comment: Ok, thanks. To the Native Americans on the call, if your goal was to change the 
street name to remove a name that you believe is offensive, you've likely achieved that goal since the 
Mayor and City Council have started the renaming process. Once this is done, for most of you and 
others who occasionally drive down this street on the way to the park, the name issue will be forgotten 
in a heartbeat, but for residents of this tiny street, we must deal with this name on a daily basis from 
now on. So now, let the residents who will be dealing with this name everytime they must give out their 
address to someone when placing a mail order or arranging for in-home service or paying bills and a 
myriad of other things, let them choose the street name that they are comfortable with. You've made it 
clear that you want the name to be Piestawa Peak Drive, which may have been your real intent to start 
with, but Lori has already been honored in at least three ways here in Phoenix. Once on the Hopi 
Reservation and then many other places around the United States. Tagging yet another item with the 
Piestawa name is not necessary to see that she has been honored and it will only cause confusion, not 
only because  of the Piestawa Freeway that is just blocks away, but also because it's hard to spell and 
hard to pronounce. Of course it also does not meet the requirements listed in the City street renaming 
policy.  I realize that many of you on this call probably live in the Metro Phoenix area, but I'm sure you 
still have ties to your reservation. We don't want tell you to name your streets or roads on your 
reservation, so just as we have compassion for your past histrory, and yes we really do, have a little 
compassion for us and let us choose any new name. And, to the Mayor and City Council members, we 
the residents did not name this street, so there is still reason to question as to whether the name needs 
to be changed, please don't use our little street as a token to pay the price for the early settlers 
encroaching on Native American's land or because Native Americans think we were inapproriately 
defining  the word Squaw to mean something other than what dictionaries originally said was the 
stated definition of the word which was not derrogatory. Let us choose the name for the street which 
Yes
No
Speaker comment: First, I’d like to say to Percy Piestewa, I’d like to say thank you for your sacrifice. I’ve 
listened to the comments of American Indians at previous meetings and offsite and one thing stands 
out above all else, you are very proud people and I admire that. I’ve asked myself, why do I oppose 
doing something for people I admire. The answer is simple, changing a street name doesn’t accomplish 
anything for the American Indian community. It doesn’t address the history of mistreatment by the U.S. 
governments. It doesn’t open economic door close to you. It doesn’t do anything to improve the quality 
of your life. It’s an empty gesture. I want more for you. The other residents of Squaw Peak Drive want 
more. Let’s put a focus on getting resources to the Indian Health Service, the Phoenix Indian Center and 
Native Health. Let’s work with the Governor’s office on tribal relations to strengthen education of 
American Indian students. Your history is passed from generation to generation and I would like you to 
think about how powerful a story can be that you can tell future generations. Your grandfather, your 
grandmother, made it possible for you to go to college. Tribal elders improved your access to doctors 
and health care. Or, would you rather recount the story of how you changed a street name. Thanks 
No
Yes
Written comment submitted with registration:
I would like the current derogatory street name - which is an insult to women - to be removed, and I 
prefer that the street be renamed Piestewa Peak Drive, in honor of fallen Native American Army 
soldier, Lori Piestewa, a member of the Hopi tribe. "
Piestewa Peak Drive

Aug. 11 S**** Peak Drive Community Web Forum Participants with comments
(Residents that live or adjacent to the street highlighed in yellow)
No
No
Speaker comment: My name is Adeezhi Salas, not Squaw Salas. Adeezhi derives from the Navajo 
meaning younger sister. I am the youngest sister of four. I am 14 years old and an honor student at 
Shadow Mountain High School. My mother is Denai, from Tolani Lake on the Navajo Reservation and 
my father, a U.S. Army veteran is  KISH Grabrieleno Band of Mission Indians. My parents are business 
owners of Travel Indemnity and active in our Indigenous communities. I am a voice of my generation 
and a voice for those yet to be born. I am not a resident of your community, but I feel it is imperative 
that the residents hear the voice of future voters and future leaders. The claim that has been made in 
prior meeting by someone who opposes the street renaming that there is no Native consensus on the 
disparaging names we are called such as Squaw and others. Well, I am respectfully disagreeing with 
you. As a young Indigenous woman, I can say that we are reclaiming our identities that are frequently 
misrepresented and misappropriated within popular culture. As a non-resident of your community, I 
cannot demand you to honor a U.S. Patriot warrior woman I admire by changing the street’s name. 
Although precedence has been set that renaming the street should reflect the name of the peak rather 
than making a demand, I will share with you this, when I had the honor to run the eagle staff up to the 
top of Piestewa Peak in the spring of 2019 at the age of 13 during the annual memorial celebration of 
all fallen warriors, including Lori Piestewa, my thoughts and prayers were for all of us including those of 
you who reside at the base. The honor songs that call in the Red Tail Hawk that encircles the gathering 
year after year not only brings blessing to those who gather, but also brings blessings to your 
community. Our Indigenous history and stories have been swept under the rug and often forgotten in 
the midst of this great experiment we call the United States. Lori Piestewa is a Hopi warrior woman and 
Piestewa Peak Drive
No
Yes
Speaker comments: My name is Tim Nuvangyaoma and I have the honor of serving as the Chairman of 
the Hopi Tribe. And, we also take great honors that in the unfortunate situation that Ms. Lori Piestewa 
was placed in and how this is coming about. We don’t want to forget the sacrifice she made along with 
many of our Native American veterans and it doesn’t just stand for that, but this is for veterans all 
across the Nation that made the sacrifices for our freedoms. One thing I do want to note is you know 
prior to coming back home, I did consider Phoenix as my residence for 20+ years. I went to high school 
out there and even in those areas with not complete understanding of Native American history and 
background, you know, the joking does happen when it comes to Squaw. So, I understand the 
derogatory nature of that particular word and coincidentally, I was in the valley on some separate 
business over the weekend and happened to drive down in that area and I had to think to myself, we’re 
in the year 2020 now and we still have issues like this that are out there and that hasn’t quite reached 
the level of being addressed. So, I do want to thank the honorable City Council members for bringing 
this to light. It’s that time. There’s a huge movement and a shift in dynamics when it comes to the 
entire country with equality. And, considering there you have 21 federally recognized tribes in the state 
of Arizona, first Nations here that inhabited this area from the very beginning should be a reminder to 
those that our leadership in the City of Phoenix and Arizona as well that we are not going to be invisible 
anymore and this is one step forward to having some of those changes made on behalf of Native 
America. And, so it’s just important for me to be a part of this panel and express from my view point 
that I do support this and I’m thankful that it is getting the attention that’s long overdue and whether 
you oppose it or not, I do want to thank those that commented, further comments as well, that’s the 
whole purpose of a public hearing. And, to those that do support it, I’ve heard many of our Native 
brothers and sisters speak to the fact that and others that support it as well. And, we have to move 
forward now, we are in year 2020 and have to address some of these issues. You know, Native lives 
matter and Native America needs to be heard, so I just want to mention that again. Honorable City 
Council,  I appreciate you bringing this to the table and giving us an opportunity to voice our feelings 
about the name itself and what it represents. So, thank you this evening and I will echo what Ms. Titla 
Piestewa Peak Drive
Yes
No
Speaker comment: My name is Traci Morris and I am a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma, 
but I make my home in the valley. I’ve been here almost 20 years in the Phoenix area. As a lot of 
relocated Indians are, we have one of the largest populations with Native American Urban Indians in 
the country, if not, the largest, well no, Manhattan’s higher, but I digress. I am the Director to the 
Executive Director of the American Indian Policy Institute at Arizona State University. I have a PhD in 
American Indian Studies and I have been around a number of folks; this is what I do, this is what I do 
every day. But I can’t speak in the eloquent words that Lori’s mother spoke in that moved me to tears. 
So, I’m just gonna say this, I support Piestewa Peak Drive as the name because it’s the right thing to do 
to honor a Native American woman killed in action fighting for this country. Words matter, 
No
Yes
No
No
Yes

Aug. 11 S**** Peak Drive Community Web Forum Participants with comments
(Residents that live or adjacent to the street highlighed in yellow)
No
Yes
Speaker comment: My name is..  I’m a member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe. I am a decedent to 
three Apache “inaudible”, some who may have inhabited the area surrounding Piestewa Peak. On 
numerous occasions, I’ve had the honor and pleasure to hike Piestewa Peak, as I live here in the valley. 
Unfortunately, I forced to see the S word, a hurtful word, on a street sign on the way there. Today, I’m 
speaking out because I’m now a grandmother to two beautiful granddaughters who are paying 
attention. Choice of words are important. The S word makes me cringe. It’s not a word in my 
vocabulary. I cannot bring myself to say it. It’s highly offensive and is part of a painful past. The S word 
is a European settler word. It’s not an Indigenous word. Despite what some may say, specifically it 
might be part of root words coming from the Algonquin language, the word has evolved over time and 
has been used to disparage Indigenous women. It’s an ugly word. When people say the S word is not 
offensive, it invalidates the opinions of those who say it is. When someone says the S word is not 
offensive, they dismiss the feelings of those who say it is.  When someone says the S word Is not 
offensive, they are saying opposing views are insignificant. When someone says the S word Is not 
offensive, they believe their choice of a word is more important because the dominant society has 
accepted it as a non-offensive word. It’s time to take down the S word from street signs. The Arizona 
State Board on Geographic and Historic Names and eventually the U.S. Board on Geographic Names did 
the right thing when they voted to rename S Peak to Piestewa Peak. I urge the Phoenix City Council to 
do the right thing. To choose the right words for the street leading up to Piestewa Peak. Please vote in 
Piestewa Peak Drive
No
Yes
Speaker comment: Hi Mario and City staff. Thank you do much for hosting this meeting and providing 
the opportunity to provide input on this important City process for the proposed renaming of Piestewa 
Drive. My name is Ginger Sykes Torres, I’m Navajo Dene and a resident of North Central Phoenix. I’m a 
trustee on the Board of Directors at the Heard Museum and I’m involved in numerous aspects of 
community service within our City Boards and Commissions. I strongly support the renaming; I think it 
is the healthy thing for our community to do right now. I love within a mile of the street and my 
children attend the school that is basically on this street. The time to change the street is late, but it’s 
an opportunity right now to take a street with a derogatory name and turn it into something that can 
be a point of pride for our City and our visitors and from anyone that comes from out of town, native or 
non-native, we can be proud of the new name. And in addition, I think it is important that we change 
the name for our children who will be here in this valley long after we are all gone. I appreciate the City 
offering to assist residents with the name change and thank you in advance to all of the City staff that 
will be standing by to help residents with the street name change and I just wanted to thank you all for 
No
No
No
Yes
Speaker comments: First off, I’d like to thank all of you for being here as well your time, greatly 
appreciated. I’m here to speak out on behalf of my people and voice what is right within our 
community. I am a 5th generation Arizona native as my family roots date back to prior to 1912. I take 
great pride in the way my family helped build this state and so I recently utilized “23 & Me” and to my 
surprise, I’m over 40% Native. And this came as a surprise to me as I embark on this journey to learn 
about what tribe I have history in, which was news, but only reassures my stance on renaming these 
streets to respect and honor the lives of the people and Native lands here in Arizona that came before 
me. The S word needs to be eradicated and removed as this is a slur based on a negative past, it’s 
derogatory. Like I said, let’s take a look at honoring our people, honoring our state, and real history. I 
once again want to thank you all for you time, it’s much appreciated.  Be blessed. Thank you.
No
Yes
Speaker comment: My name is Patricia Hibbeler, I am a citizen of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai 
Tribes of Montana. I am also CEO for the Phoenix Indian Center and a lifetime trustee for the Heard 
Museum. The S word is offensive and one that make me cry and feel ugly. It is a word that is negative 
towards us, American Indians. It has been used for several years to dehumanize people and the 
contemptuous connotation has been extended far beyond the Algonquin Tribes to all American Indian 
women from Maine to San Francisco. When I moved to Phoenix over 20 years ago, I was shocked that 
this word still continued to be used within the City and all of the opposition for it to be changed. The S 
word continues to offend me and other American Indians. A simple courtesy says it’s time to dump this 
name and place it in the linguistic trash can just as other radical ethnic and gender slanders. Several 
states have already passed laws to rid all names with the S word such as Minnesota, Montana, 
Colorado and Maine. Please do not treat us as an invisible population within this urban environment. 
Please respect our presence and are emotions toward a word that is based on a negative past and 
continues to be more demeaning to our American Indian women. It’s time for the City of Phoenix to 
find a name to be proud of for our next generation of young people and demonstrate to them the true 
appreciation for diversity. Let’s do the right thing. I would also say to the gentleman who spoke earlier

Aug. 11 S**** Peak Drive Community Web Forum Participants with comments
(Residents that live or adjacent to the street highlighed in yellow)
No
Yes
Speaker comment: Good evening, my name is Ernest Martinez. My wife, who is Navajo, and family have 
lived at the base of Piestewa Peak for the past 30 years. We're related to Lori Piestewa and the family. 
I'm also the coordinator for the annual Piestewa Fallen Heroes Sunrise Memorial, held every year for 
the past 16 years at Piestewa Peak on the day that Lori died. The Hopi, the Navajo, and representatives 
from Indigenous populations that formally inhabited our Phoenix area and veterans from throughout 
Arizona and the public come to the service faithfully every year to honor Lori, all our Native American 
fallen heroes and our veterans. But, it doesn't stop there. Upon the direction of the Piestewa family, we 
honor all our fallen heroes from Arizona regardless of race and the services of all our veterans. The 
former POW's of the Iraq War come every year to help us. The night before the sunrise memorial we 
have our reception, dinner and candlelight vigil at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral Hall. For the mothers 
and family members of loved one from throughout Arizona that have died for us in war. They are called 
Gold Star families and they carry the sacrifice of their loved ones daily in their heart. These sacrificies 
are what have made our country great and preserved the freedoms that we enjoy today. All the 
members of the public, of course, are welcome to attend all ceremonies and that is why we would like 
to see the name of the street leading to the mountain be names Piestewa Peak Drive in honor of Lori, 
our Native American community, our loved ones throughout the state that died protecting us, are 
precious Gold Star families and our veterans. One thing we must never forget is freedom is not free. 
The name of the street could be a daily reminder of the greatest sacrifices made by so many thoughout 
Piestewa Peak Drive
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Speaker comments: Good evening, “words spoken in his native language that I do not know and unable 
to write down”. I just introduced myself in a language that my grandfather in World War II and as Ms. 
Hibbeler and the rest of the ladies have shared, words matter. Our words help win the war in World 
War II. And this word of this street is very demeaning. And we have an epidemic, a quiet epidemic that 
is now, not so quiet. The missing and murder of Indigenous women is an epidemic that has been quietly 
taking innocent Native American women and girls, boys, transgendered, lgtbq across the United States. 
And it’s because of words like these socially acceptable words that demean, dehumanize my relatives, 
my sisters, my mothers, my grandmothers. It’s time that we, together, work on, one step at a time, and 
this is one step that we can work on together. And, as the caller mentioned, there’s other words and 
other street names throughout the City that we also need to work on. And, let’s do this together. As 
first nations of Arizona; first nations of the United States all living in metro Phoenix, let’s make a change 
together so that we are all welcome in the City of Phoenix. Thank you.
No
Yes
Speaker comment: My name is Percy Piestewa, I am Lori Piestewa’s mother. I would be very humbled 
to have the name of this street leading to Piestewa Peak be named Piestewa Peak Drive in honor of 
Lori. Many of you have members of your family who have served or are presently serving our country. 
Close your eyes and imagine, one day you get a news flash on t.v. the unit your family member is in has 
been ambushed. Then, you hear that your family member has been killed. It is very heart wrenching 
experience for everyone, not just the families, why, because those who have given their lives, have 
done so for all of us so that we may be able to enjoy the freedoms we so often take for granted. In the 
mix of the heartbreak and devastation, there is a bright light. The community, the different ethnic 
people, the world, comes to conclusion to honor someone by renaming a landmark. By doing this, they 
honor all who have served. It is a truly humbling experience to our families to know that our 
communities understand and remember the sacrifice our military heroes have made. It is also a great 
honor to know that Lori and all who have sacrifice will never be forgotten. It will also serve as a 
reminder that freedom is not free. I would like to read scripture John 15:13, “Greater love hath no man 
Piestewa Peak Drive
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Piestewa Peak Drive 
Piestewa Peak Drive
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Speaker comment: Thank you very much. So, I'm Dede Devine with Native American Connections, a 
non-profit that's been providing services to the Native community in the Phoenix area for over 50 
years. As the City of Phoenix moves forward as a very inclusive city, this is really a simple decision. The 
only community that can be, can really determine if this street name is offensive is Indigenous women 
and we have heard their voice in previous testimony and written comments and I'm sure comments 
here tonight. I'm asking that you show respect for voices that haven't always been heard or listened to 
and I'm asking that you change the name and do the right thing. Thank you.
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Aug. 11 S**** Peak Drive Community Web Forum Participants with comments
(Residents that live or adjacent to the street highlighed in yellow)
No
Yes
Speaker comment: I am recovering from a brain aneurysm, so be patient with me. I am pleased to 
answer the call to represent our people of this great state. Did you know there are 22 tribes in our state 
and all of them are federally recognized? My name is Jackson Harris and I am a matrilineal warrior. My 
mother (do not know spelling of her mom’s name), died of Covid-19. Her little brother, a Vietnam 
veteran, also passed within the week. Our people have been hit very hard. Our beautiful Native 
daughter deserves this honor. She gave her life and she didn’t think twice about it. Can you imagine? 
Please help us begin the healing. 2020 could very well go down in history as a turning point. Be part of 
the change. I talked with Percy, Lori’s mother, today and mother to mother I feel her pain. I lost my 
mother to Covid two months ago. This is not a hoax. This is taking our people, but in the same vein, we 
can heal. We are strong. We come from strong stock. We are the people, the first peoples, So, thank 
you very much for letting me be a part of this, it’s so important for us. Thank you, have a good night.
Piestewa Peak Drive
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Speaker comment: Hi there, I just have a really quick question and then I'll speak real quick. So, it was 
my understanding that the Robert E. Lee was supposed to be renamed as well. Is that a different 
meeting that is going to be happening? Ok, cool, alright, so, first and foremost I think it goes beyond 
without saying that, of course, the street should be renamed Piestewa. I definitely drive thru this street 
almost single day to take a hike up that and seeing that racial slur hanging out there every single day is 
definitely not something I would expect from a City the size and diverse as Phoenix. Also, I want to say 
that there is a doctor named Dr. Winston Hackett and I think he would be a perfect person to put on 
the Robert E. Lee. He was one of the most capable doctors here in Phoenix. As a matter of fact, you 
could probably put anybody from the Hackett family up there. Dr. Hackett provided medical services 
not only people of color in the City when it was segregated, he also provided help for those of any race 
with socially destigmatized ailments. Some who were alienated from medical care from anybody and 
any place. He built at least 6 colleges to help patients with Mycobacterium tuberculosis and then 
converted the hospital he built for everyone here in Phoenix to the Winston Inn, which housed and fed 
hundreds of World War II draftees. And so, I think that's very important. The last thing I wanted to say 
is I think it's really important that Phoenix is doing things like changing signs and everything like that, 
but comes across as virtue signalling when here in our City we have one of the most violent Police 
forces. In November of 2019 they were in the news for stop and frisk packets. This week it was found 
out that Phoenix police disappropriately used force on people of color. And just recently this week as 
well, Phoenix police are arresting protestors that are utilizing their first amendment rights and I find it 
very disconcerning that we spend more money on public relations than we do on rape cases. I do want 
to just say it needs to not just stop at the signs and make sure that we go after things including our 
Piestewa Peak Drive