“The Spunky Squaw”: a new online boutique
February 8, 2018
Since I was very young, my personality isn’t the only thing that has been unique; so has my style. From a very young age, I have always made a point to dress in a different way than others while also encouraging others to do the same. Starting out as a toddler, being in front of a camera was second nature as my mom definitely kept me in the spotlight and so did several local children’s boutique in their newspaper ads. As time passed by and I got into middle school and high school, I modeled for several boutiques and it was nothing short of fun. From always being around the boutique industry it has always driven my passion to open my own boutique and embrace my love for fashion.
Literally, it happened overnight. When I say overnight I’m not even kidding. After helping many boutiques manage their social media accounts, model their clothing and even picking out most of their inventory, I decided it was time to do it for myself. The excitement was indescribable…. I was starting an online boutique! The most difficult part of all of this was coming up with a name. I wanted to be completely different than any other store and I wanted something very catchy. I decided the name had to be Spunky Squaw because it was something funky and original.
My first plan was to establish a style that I loved. I didn’t want to carry anything extremely trendy because I wanted to start my own trends. Once I received my first box of inventory it was game time. I got a local photographer, Lazy K Photography to help out with the pictures and they were nothing short of amazing. Once I began to post, it all went so quick. Within my first couple weeks of being in business I had shipped all across the United States. I was and still am so thankful for these customers.
After the sudden success, I wanted to dig even deeper. I teamed up with some awesome wholesalers and got some really cool pieces while even creating custom pieces myself. The fact that I am able to channel my creative side really makes this fun rather than feel like a job. I wanted to get the boutique publicized more so I decided to do a Brand Rep program. This program helped me gain the eye of people from all over Texas and different states such as California and Louisiana. With one local Brand Rep, Colti Wright, it has allowed me to get pictures of different people to post to sale more items. I decided to stick with being online to start out because being in college and working takes up a lot of time and I felt avoiding the overhead cost of a brick and mortar was a great idea because it would allow me to build up my customer base and still retain profit. Because of the instant and on going success, I do plan on opening a store front once I graduate.
When starting this adventure, I kept it to myself and to several close friends and family so I could devote my focus strictly on my business. Watching it grow before I announced the exciting news was probably one of the hardest things I did, but it was also the most beneficial. The biggest advice I have for anyone else who has this same passion or really any passion is to go for it. Surround yourself with good people who inspire you to be successful, be kind to those who don’t and always encourage the person wanting to do it, to do it good. If anyone has any questions about putting your dreams into action, feel free to contact me, I believe in you!
xo,
B
P.S. Big things are coming to The Spunky Squaw. Follow us to keep an eye out.
Check out The Spunky Squaw here to shop. You can also follow The Spunky Squaw at thespunkysquaw on Instagram or here on Facebook
Robin Hamm • Dec 6, 2018 at 12:23 AM
Here we are 5 days past the month that we so-called ‘Americans’ celebrate the many Indigenous peoples, whose lands, resources, children AND WOMEN for over 7 generations have been squatted upon, molested …. stolen.
Yet we still have #EuroAmericanOffspring (#ESO) … aka #WhitePeople esp. the classic White damsel, bemoaning her innocence in choosing a well known in American college party/frat circles (coming from British slang, but used in these circles trying to sound posh or well travelled …. rather than the truth…merely sounding trashy and slutty… frustratingly yet another bad representation of people who look like me. Sigh
But exponentially more concerning is …. placing that dripping sexual innuendo – double entendre – in front of an already sexually deviant (misogynistic ) racial slur aimed at Native women….
Further, that in HER OWN WORDS “ It happened over night…. literally over night” as she exclaims in the 2nd paragraph further highlights her knowledge of this word.
Brooke, I reached out to you and instead of remorse and contrition…. I have only seen a racist protecting your stance. A non racist person would apologize and immediately cease and desist …. which includes complete removal of all references of this terrible …. not so clever …. attempted British double entendres.
Genocide is no joke and neither is Murdered and Missing Women and children. The use of hyper sexualized misogynistic stereotyping is abominable Brooke. I can see thru your words that you knew EXACTLY what spunky AND sq**w BOTH meant. And further I contend you are a fan of British humour…. and hang around frat guys and down a fair bit of whiskey and other liquor at your football parties.
Your business name “literally ‘came’ overnight” ehh?smh
The Spunky Squaw .
literally mean, folks,
***ejaculate covered Native female genitalia ***.
That BROOKE ADAMS still wants to keep even after having been outted!!! Shame on you. THIS is the face of our modern genocide folks. #ThisISamerica
#MMIW & #MMIWC deserve better after everything we have done and continue to do. #timetobebetter #endthegenocide both incl #ACoPA …. all #precolombian Americans
Your website on godaddy is down…. will you please remove ALL reference to your racist business name and Native people (including ALL precolombian Americas peoples). I am asking of your humanity, Christianity (I presume) and as a woman who I assume cares about #metoo…. to be contrite and fix this…. completely.
If you adore spunky so much…. put it in front of your own demographic …. like, The spunky coed ;-). The spunky graduate? Spunky Brookie? Brooke’s Spunky Fashions maybe sponsored by Monika Lewinski. Bwahahaha Lol. Bet not 😉 Lolololol.
Anyway…. seriously. You already face a lawsuit by the Dine’ people…. but you still have a tiny bit of dignity you can pull out of this. #timetobebetter #metoo & #MMIW & #MMIWC deserve better. Deactivate and dismantle it …. rebuild your business honorably and MORE people will support it and you. Trust me, doing things in a good way does get easier. And you save your humanity to boot! 😉
Robin Hamm
international human rights
Jason Malbeuf • Nov 18, 2018 at 12:03 PM
Disgusting name. Pathetic and sad. Give your head a shake, educate your fool self.
Bria Lapoint • Nov 2, 2018 at 7:07 AM
Glad i dont live in Texas anymore. Sure people can name their store whatever they want, its a free country, but be prepared for consequences. Also, a dictionary wont hurt, unless i throw it hard enough. But actually looking and seeing the definition for yourself will show that you actually do care about what people say. But I somehow doubt you will.
raven norris • Oct 29, 2018 at 5:59 PM
JTAC News you should be just as ashamed as this brand should be for supporting such an awful thing. native americans have been abused by white people since the beginning of america and it’s 2018. How ignorant and conservative do you have to be to allow the use of a slur aimed toward native american women. this is racist. this is sexist. and more importantly incredibly embarrassing. Anyone who attends here or participates should down right be ashamed and embarrassed. You have no respect from me, but as a native american, i didn’t expect you to care either way. IF YOU SAY RACIST THINGS. YOU ARE RACIST.
Kelle Sparta • Oct 29, 2018 at 12:32 PM
I am a white woman who is HORRIFIED at the name you have chosen for your business. Seriously? Did you do no research on your terms before launching. This is beyond offensive and I hope that you discover it’s a bad business choice as well.
MR Guy • Oct 25, 2018 at 1:03 PM
Two things. If you read the article the term squaw means Indian woman which it is. How long has she been in business and not one person complained? Probably years. Time to stop being so sensitive. Racism exists against white people as well. Oh and it is also important to remember death threats are illegal. Someone obviously decided to browse the internet looking for offensive things. Get a life!
Robin Hamm • Oct 25, 2018 at 12:34 PM
Waaw…. so chickipoo, You wanted to be unique and different…. so you gave yourself a racist porn name and wrapped it in a business? Spunk = male ejaculate/semen/CUM
So far I am the only ine SCREAMING about you putting TWO SEXUAL TERMS TOGETHER…. and playing like you never heard the term ‘Spunk’ in the frat parties? The gang banging scumbags call their ejaculate “spunk”. Bill Clinton left his spunk on Lweinski’s dress….and THAT was the word used, because cum was too “bad”.
Then you choose the word sq-w…. after the word cum …. a word used by European Squatters and their Offspring since the days of Pacahontis…. the sex trafficked CHILD. This word was a dehumanization of Natives. It is a word used to genocide a hemisphere by rape and molestation.
So I guess the next question falls to this university and what ethics you are apparently NOT imbuing into the next generation of supposedly educated leaders of our society.
Concerned,
Robin Hamm
Int’l human rights
Shuri • Oct 24, 2018 at 10:23 PM
I pity the woman who thrives on hate. Brooke, you are using a hateful word to sell clothing probably made in China to woman desperate enough to buy your tacky clothing so men will find them attractive. You are capitalizing on thousands of missing and murdered indigenous women. You could be using your talents and time to better this world, instead you are spreading hate and ignorance. Please change the name.
Claudette Lee Lindquist • Oct 23, 2018 at 10:19 PM
Change your store name, this is unbelievably RACIST!
Melissa • Oct 23, 2018 at 10:08 PM
The name of your business is extremely offensive to Indigenous women everywhere. Terms should not be used because you think it’s “funky” and you are continuing a racist and hurtful notion. Squaw is extremely offensive. Consider changing the name.
Nic • Oct 23, 2018 at 9:59 PM
Brooke you are not the victim here, your white tears of privilege will only get you and your business so far. If you did any research at all beside looking up the definition of squaw on urban dictionary (which is not a real fucking dictionary btw), then you would see that that term is mainly used as a derogatory racial slur. The only time I’ve ever heard that term was in a very derogatory manner, by angry white people. So yeah I hope you see the light, go learn about all the thousands of murdered and missing indigenous women across North America and try to, as a white woman, have some compassion and see where we are coming from and the message we are trying to get through to you.
Jaden Fivekiller • Oct 23, 2018 at 9:32 PM
As a white woman what gives you the right to use a racial slur against we Natives. Then ontop try to dress it up n tell is what the word means. You do not have that right. We Native woman are still called squaw by white men who want us to sit down and not speak up for ourselves. As a woman you should want to empower other women as well as yourself. Not to belittle we Native women and use us as a stepping stone to make money off of. Plus we women don’t wear headdresses in most tribes. It’s disrespectful that white people appropriate our culture for profit n amusement. You can be spunky all you want but don’t be racist while doing it. Also do not wear the powered by wiskey shirt while in the headdress. If you knew anything of we Natives then you would know how alcohol was introduced to our people n how many of our people struggle with alcoholism still to this day. How white fur traders would give it to the Native men. Get them drunk n rob them n rape any female or young male child who was with them. Educate yourself and stop being a racist culture vulture
Arisha • Oct 23, 2018 at 6:40 PM
Wow. You actually named you’re store “Squaw” ?!?! I had to check for myself after seeing it all over fb. Is you’re while family and friends uneducated ??? Letting you think it’s okay to use that disgusting word ??? My Lord.
Kevin • Oct 23, 2018 at 6:27 PM
Here are a few alternate name options for you to consider:
The Crafty Cracker
The Salty Settler
The Rambling Racist
The Pasty Punk
The Arrogant Appropriator
The Cordial Colonizer
The Longhorn Hoochie Mamma
The Angry Anglo
The Plebeian Pussy
The Problematic Pilgrim
The Jesus Skank
Abdrette • Oct 23, 2018 at 10:05 AM
University news, really??
You’d advertise this when you should know it’s demeaning to Native American Women.
For shame….
Crystal Ridgway • Oct 23, 2018 at 7:22 AM
If any one called my beautiful native daughters a squaw, I would kick their ass. Unbelievably disrespectful. I am disappointed that this young women’s parents after being “educated” still stand by this racist and dirty disgusting name. I’m sure they wouldn’t want their daughter called a cunt. Or like many native women today, kidnapped raped and killed because it has been acceptable to treat native women like property. How disappointing is it that jtacnews even allows an article about a business with such demeaning and racially insensitive name.
Lissa • Oct 22, 2018 at 3:32 PM
What type of university highlights their student’s business whose name is so unbelievably derogatory ? Is this what Tarleton stands for?
Mickey • Oct 22, 2018 at 1:44 PM
Change your name! Only a racist would not admit that they are racist. Your name is racist! Why not call your product “Ignorant White Bitch”!
Killgore • Oct 21, 2018 at 11:20 PM
You know its wrong, just change the name. Racism will not be tolerated.
Bruce • Oct 21, 2018 at 10:21 AM
Ignorance is bliss I guess ♂️
Cindie Hutchison • Oct 21, 2018 at 5:41 AM
I would ask that you step outside of yourself for a moment and acknowledge the generations of indigenous women who have been demoralised by the use of this word. The denigration the word carries equates to how African American people feel about the “n” word with the added sexist connotation of reducing the recipient to nothing more than their genitalia.
I understand you put a lot of heart and soul into your little company – I’m sure you didn’t intend to offend…but now that you know, you must do the right thing. Empathy is the mark of true maturity and the foundation of living a life that reflects the tennents of Christianity. Please open your heart and do the right thing.
Pauline Saribas • Oct 20, 2018 at 11:15 AM
The consensus is that the name is racist and misogynistic and should be changed. Are you listening, Brooke?
Hayley • Oct 20, 2018 at 10:50 AM
taking cultural appropriation to a whole new level ….
Good luck in being successful with any business in the future ..
Dana • Oct 20, 2018 at 12:25 AM
Sad days. I think of all the publicity she is getting even if negative. I think the better thing to do is discourage people from shopping at this racist shop. That may prompt her to rename her racist on line store.
Alfredo Dominguez • Oct 19, 2018 at 2:07 PM
Changing the name to jizzed cunt would be funky and original. Maybe you learned something. I learned there are clueless individuals amount us. Hey maybe offer your customers a Pepsi.
Jennifer Mansell • Oct 19, 2018 at 9:40 AM
As of others have said, the name of this business is racist and offensive. There used to be a creek near where I live which was named the s-word but it was changed because it was so offensive. The same is true of landmarks elsewhere. This alone should demonstrate how offensive the word is because changing the names of landmarks isn’t a quick or easy process. Brooke should issue an apology and change the name of her business to something which isn’t racist.
Carol • Oct 18, 2018 at 11:59 PM
Just adding my voice with all the hundreds, maybe more that have expressed their anger at the name of your business. Not a good start…..but you can right the wrong by changing the name. Social media is a very powerful tool…..good for some……but not good for you or your business. Hope you apologize and find a more positive name. you made a mistake….big time……so correct it.
jo-anne dan • Oct 18, 2018 at 10:49 PM
From what I heard “squaw” was the name given to the native women by the white man. It meant female vagina, in other word C###, figure it out. Very disrespectful to any women to this day. I am sure these women who created this name for their store, dont like to be called this. Maybe they should have researched this. All women should stand together no matter what race they are. These women are so upset about the backlash, think about the meaning and disrespect to the indigenous women. They should reconsider changing the name. As they will never have good luck with this tainted business name. If I ever get near that store they will definitely hear from me. See how they like being called a squaw. Because using that word you are calling yourself and all women “SQUAW”. THINK ABOUT IT. STUPID
Kelly • Oct 18, 2018 at 6:13 PM
The Spunky Squaw is offensive for all native woman, we were killed for being a so called squaw. How bout a native open a store called The Spunky Honky? Holy sh*t would that cause an outrage like your Spunky Squaw is. Think of the insensitivity by your family.
So sad your parents see no shame! Must carry generations of racist blood in your family.
Angela • Oct 18, 2018 at 5:58 PM
This is some sort of sick joke right? Cant really be the name of a business. Nobody should make a profit off racism. And if this is for real this woman should be arrested for a hate crime. Publicly degrading all First Nations women like this. Hope she is sued for the pain she’s inflicted on so many ladies.
Stephanie Pooler • Oct 18, 2018 at 3:07 PM
Change the name of your business and be accountable for your racist actions. I don’t think you intended harm while naming your boutique, however, instead of doubling down, you should take this time to learn and reflect on racism and power dynamics.
Although the dictionary definition of the word “squaw” is “Native American woman or wife”, the word has historically been used as a slur. Settlers have used this word as a derogatory way to call indigenous women a whore or piece of ass. As a woman, I would not appreciate being called a whore or piece of ass. I’m certain you feel the same.
While browsing your online store, I noticed that you are selling clothes with” Navajo” print. This is cultural appropriation and is unacceptable. Cultural appropriation is when someone adopts aspects of a culture that is not their own and plays a part in white supremacy. The indigenous people of North America experienced genocide and lost a significant amount of their culture. I strongly encourage you to reflect on the power dynamics involved in settlers taking elements from a culture of people who have been systematically oppressed.
I am not part of a hate group. I’m a full time student who does voluntarily does peer support for women and takes care of her elderly grandparents. I’m sure you would agree that it’s important for women to support each other. Part of supporting other women is not treating each other like whores or pieces of ass.
Please do the right thing. Change the name of your boutique and pull the ” Navajo” print from your online store. I am certain that you would not name your store “The Happy N*****”. Please take this time to reflect on what you have done wrong and how you can fix it. Doubling down will not help. You can’t sue 2,000,000 + indigenous people and their allies.
Jane • Oct 18, 2018 at 2:34 PM
As a non Native American, I find this word repulsive and offensive. At best, it shows ignorance. At worst, malice and hatred. Perhaps originally you had no idea. Now you know.
Choosing not to change your name now, for whatever reason, would be sad, hateful and disgusting.
As far as the clothing or “style” goes, unoriginal. Perhaps more time is needed to rethink your venture altogether.
Jane • Oct 18, 2018 at 2:32 PM
As a non Native American, I find this word repulsive and offensive. At best, it shows ignorance. At worst, malice and hatred. Perhaps originally you had no idea. Now you know.
Choosing not to change your name now, for whatever reason, would be sad, hateful and disgusting.
Jennifer • Oct 18, 2018 at 2:15 PM
Brooke refuses to acknowledge how racist her boutique name is. Unfortunately claiming she is a “victim” to the angry folks asking her to change the name of her business.
Some folks who are angry may well be threatening to her( haven’t seen that in any posts but that’s what she claims) yet MANY ARE NOT.
Those of us who are not threatening her are still being IGNORED.
Stop pretending this is ok in this day and age. Respect my mothers and grandmothers who don’t deserve to know the word squaw is being used still.
Che Pajogwin • Oct 18, 2018 at 1:42 PM
This site sucks and should change it’s bigoted and insensitive name. Why is this school supporting such a commercially exploitative endeavor?
Priscilla Lane • Oct 17, 2018 at 3:57 PM
The word “squaw” is a racist and misogynist slur toward Native women. I’ve become aware that this “boutique” owner has been informed of this fact and has responded by further insulting Native women and Native people in general. It’s disgusting that JTAC News would give positive coverage to this woman and her store.
Seiche Leclair • Oct 17, 2018 at 3:32 PM
Besides the appalling name (did you consider “Nifty N-words” as well?), you also show no respect for native cultures. You used the unique, discernible thunderbird symbol of the Anishinaabeg, who are pretty far north of Texas, and covered it in leopard print and slapped it on a t-shirt. Offensive is one thing, but tacky and offensive is another. I don’t see many zebra print crucifixes out there, just saying. That is what you have done: taken something holy and turned it into a cheap accessory.
Janece • Oct 17, 2018 at 3:16 PM
“Surround yourself with good people who inspire you to be successful, be kind to those who don’t and always encourage the person wanting to do it, to do it good.”
I am sure you put a ton of work setting and accomplishing this goal of yours.
However, by now, you have been made aware of your making a grievous error in the language you have chosen for naming your project. You probably didn’t think twice about the possibility of it being an error at all. Therein, in fact, lies the ignorance and privilege taken in making it.
Language is an abstract of a concept. It literally shapes the philosophies of perception from infancy onward, what sort of existence we are in. We must speak our words with intent and integrity.
Now that you have been made situationally aware that you are in fact re-injuring an old injury by the words you’ve chosen for your business; you have an obligation to reassess your choice. Listen to those who experience that word as injury. You are not being disregarded by their speaking their truths. They are simply showing you that there is more to truth than you know.
I understand this criticism may sting; but you need to learn from it, so that you can do better and move forward. I am operating from the assumption you had no ill intentions. I too, recently, have been made aware that “perception is reality” on some levels.
You can choose to leave the perceptions that go with a name blithely chosen in ignorance of one’s own privilege, or you may address the issue it has caused for both those hurt by it, and for yourself by changing it, and maintain dignity.
That choice is yours and yours alone.
I would take the words of those impacted by your words to heart.
Nica Treadwell • Oct 17, 2018 at 2:48 PM
As a white American, I know that “squaw” is a racist slur and must not be used ever. It is white privilege and mediocrity that propels cultural appropriation. No more excuses! Time’s up. Cease using racist slurs and appropriating Native culture! (No racist Halloween costumes either!)
Ruth Lanton • Oct 17, 2018 at 2:44 PM
The clothing is very nice, but the name of the store NEEDS to change. It’s not okay to use a derogatory term in a business name.
It’s okay that you didn’t know the name was derogatory when you set up the boutique. But when you know better, you do better. Making mistakes is part of being human. But defending a mistake when you’re told about it shows ignorance and racism.
Akycia Crees • Oct 17, 2018 at 2:43 PM
You need to change your business, this is so wrong on so many levels. You need to read up on First Nations People. This is not unique. Its ignorant and whomever told you it was ok, needs to have their head examined this is 2018 sheesh !
Jasmine • Oct 17, 2018 at 12:20 PM
Squaw is a word that people called Indigenous women and it is used as a racial slur. The true meaning of the word was taken away a long time ago. It is like calling a black person the N word. She has been told by hundreds of people that it is highly offensive and she refuses to understand why. She thinks she has done nothing wrong. Her responses to people are also not very nice. She is defending it still. People in the US and Canada are talking about this. There is a petition going around asking for the name to be changed.
Susanne • Oct 17, 2018 at 12:18 PM
Cultural Appropriation, and racism fully supported by this woman’s university.
Heidi • Oct 17, 2018 at 12:00 PM
The name of this shop is oppressive, appropriative and highly problematic. I hope that you realize the pain and discomfort it causes and rename it something that does not demean an entire racial group.
Heidi • Oct 17, 2018 at 12:00 PM
The word Squaw is an ethnic and sexual slur, historically used for Indigenous North American women. Use of the term, especially by non-Natives, is offensive, derogatory, misogynist and racist.
The name of this shop is oppressive, appropriative and highly problematic. I hope that you realize the pain and discomfort it causes and rename it something that does not demean an entire racial group.
C E Garner • Oct 17, 2018 at 11:43 AM
You now have the ear of hundreds of Native people who actually speak these languages today and who are willing to teach you. One of the reasons that your company named seemed original -to you- might have been that the word”squaw” is not used very frequently in modern English despite so many other Native language borrowed terms.. Why? That is because “squaw” is a term that is universally considered highly derogatory to native women. If you were a native speaker of native languages you would know. If you did not know that, fine. If you are sincere in wanting to use your business to connect native and anglo culture and to promote the cultures together then another name would be the best approach. You could take this as an opportunity to learn from them another title which would help you to meet your goal. If you ignore the calls of hundreds of native speakers then you have demonstrated you are more willing to support an earlier decision because it was yours rather than to connect with a culture which apparently appeals to you on some level.
Grainne Sheridan • Oct 17, 2018 at 11:42 AM
The name of your business is extremely offensive. Indigenous women are some of the most marginalized in society and have to listen to dehumanizing comments like this word on a regular basis. You’re contributing to this. If you weren’t aware of how offensive this term is when you chose it, that is okay, however now you have thousands of people helping you learn. Please, please, please change this.
Jennie • Oct 17, 2018 at 11:37 AM
Please change the name of your business. There are so many options. Please choose to be humble, apologize, and show solidarity with Native women.
Rachel • Oct 17, 2018 at 11:30 AM
I am appalled by your choice of company name and the casual appropriation of indigenous culture that you’re promoting!
I’m sure you’re aware of the many years of genocide and racialized violence that indigenous peoples have been and continue to be subjected to, indigenous women in particular. Shame on you!
Otakwan • Oct 17, 2018 at 11:20 AM
I tried to open up dialog with you numerous times over various platforms. You blocked me and my sisters who were very accomadating on trying to politely educate you, which is not out duty it was out of kindness. You turned yourself into a victim to attempt to veil your racist ideals, you called us hate groups for trying to protect our honour.The fact that you have told us to shove it up our ass while quoting scriptures, told us to shut up, sworn at us, you and your friends continued to call put sisters squaws and laugh. This is just disgusting and beyond trashy, you deserve everything coming to you.
Karindira • Oct 17, 2018 at 11:10 AM
You have chosen an incredibly racist and offensive name which literally translates to “a whore covered in ejaculate.” Nice branding! Seems appropriate for you!
Neeks • Oct 17, 2018 at 11:09 AM
It’s not difficult to believe that people are still this disgustingly racist and oblivious, but I’m finding it difficult to believe that someone is stupid enough to be open about their racism and oblivion in their business name.
Heather Dawn • Oct 17, 2018 at 10:51 AM
This is hate speech. Please just change the name. Listen to the thousands of individual indigenous people telling you that this is wrong.
Tommy Baez • Oct 17, 2018 at 10:51 AM
Squaw? Really? Did you also consider the use of “spunky nigger” or “spunky kike” or “spunky slope” or “spunky chink”? Are you really so ignorant or stupid that you don’t know squaw is an offensive slur? How about doing the right thing and changing your name and get some cultural literacy.
johanna clark • Oct 17, 2018 at 10:09 AM
I cannot stress enough how disgusting this name is. You are in university? why don’t you take a course or two on racism or the history of indigenous people in North AMerica or read up a little on the issues of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls or the continued anger over racist names? THere is no excuse for this kind of offensive labeling. You should be ashamed of yourself
Barbara • Oct 17, 2018 at 9:50 AM
Do they realize their store name litterally means Spunky Whore or Spunky Cunt? Do not use indigenous words unless you truly understand what they mean.
Autumn Rowley • Oct 17, 2018 at 9:45 AM
I can’t believe that you’re ok with using such a a racially derogatory name for your business. It makes me sick.
Rae • Oct 17, 2018 at 9:37 AM
Whether you feel you Succeeded mocking our Culture and using a Derogatory Name to top it off, TO MOCK US which is a fucken insult to our Culture!! CHANGE YOUR FUCKEN NAME TO SPUNKY WHITE TRASH OR SPUNKY CUNTIQUE!!! If your boutique is Such a Success, The changing of name should not MATTER!! YOUR JUST A ARROGANT SELFISH SON OF A BITCH WHO WILL DO ANYTHING TO MAKE A BUCK!! BEND OVER LIKE A FUCKEN SQUAW N POST THAT SHIT!! SINCE YOUR ALL FOR USING ANYTHING TO MAKE A DOLLAR!! FUCKEN SKANK CUNT!! ONE THING YOU DON’T REALIZE IS OUR CULTURAL BELIEFS ARE STRONG, N ALL THIS BAD LUCK THAT IS HAPPENING TO YOU, IS JUST KARMA KICKING YOUR ASS N I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE FINAL FINALE!!
Lisa Mullen • Oct 17, 2018 at 9:16 AM
You need to listen to Indigenous people when we get to educate you on the use of the word squaw. It’s a very derogatory word. Kinda if you named your business the Spunky Cunt. Do you understand the meaning now? From your posts on Instagram & twitter, I see you only understand simple terms so I am using a word you cant deny is derogatory.
Laura • Oct 17, 2018 at 9:15 AM
Using a racial slur in one’s business is even worse than the awful designs this person puts out…
Reid Kurtz • Oct 17, 2018 at 8:46 AM
“Squaw” is a racial slur. I can’t believe you’d ever name your store that.
Kitty • Oct 17, 2018 at 8:32 AM
So, you’re selling Jizzy Vaginas? Because that’s what your nauseating name means. Change it, little white girl. Change that name and do the right thing for once in your life.
Raven • Oct 17, 2018 at 8:25 AM
The clothes are tacky, you’re tacky and the name of the store is racist towards Native American women. But of course what can you expect from a Becky. CHANGE THE NAME YOU REPULSIVE, RACIST CUNT. “I’m unique”. No. You’re just an idiot.
Fran • Oct 17, 2018 at 8:09 AM
The name of this boutique is offensive and racist. The owner has been contacted by hundreds of people regarding this, and she does not care. This business is about her profit and perpetuating harmful and misogynistic cultural stereotypes, and Brooke Adams’s response was disrespectful and flippant. People who support this business are throwing money at a hateful business.
From Wikipedia:
The English word Squaw is an ethnic and sexual slur,[1][2][3] historically used for Indigenous North American women.[4] Contemporary use of the term, especially by non-Natives, is considered offensive, derogatory, misogynist and racist.[1][2][3][4][5][6]
The English word is not used among Native American, First Nations, Inuit or Métis peoples.[1][2][3][4] While a similar morpheme is found within some longer words in some of the Eastern Algonquian languages,[7] these languages only make up a small minority of the languages spoken in the hundreds of Indigenous communities affected by this slur.[8] Even in Algonquian, the words used are not the English-language slur, but longer, Algonquian words that only contain one morpheme.[7] Eastern Algonquian morphemes meaning “woman”, which are found as components in other words and may have been transcribed into English include the Massachusett language “squa”,[9][8] “skwa”, “esqua”, “sqeh”, “skwe”, “que”, “kwa”, “ikwe”, “exkwew”, “xkwe”, and a number of other variants.[7]
Maria Padilla • Oct 17, 2018 at 7:58 AM
Sad excuse for a Native American. What nation are you from. They need to teach you respect. Your place is called Spunky Squaw. No native in thier right mind would name thier business Spunky Vagina. Much less wear a head dress. Your a sad excuse for a native woman.
Cyndi • Oct 17, 2018 at 7:40 AM
The spunky squaw? REALLY? In 2018? A racial slur to promote your business when missing and murdered and missing indigenous women number in the thousands across the US and Canada? When this patriarchal society normalizes violence towards women?
You really need to check yourself. Your ignorance is sickening.
Daniel • Oct 17, 2018 at 7:18 AM
why would you use an openly racist word as Squaw, it is a word used to describe a aboriginal women, and to try and use it as a marketing tool or name just proves the point that you have no respect for other women of different cultures even as you try to steal the nativescultural outfits and cerimonial gear.
Jeanne Raines • Oct 17, 2018 at 6:45 AM
“Squaw” is a racial slur. If you were not intelligent or informed enough to know that before, you certainly know it now. Why do you continue to use it? Perhaps your business name is not quite right. You might try “Another Racist White Woman”. I saw this as a white woman.
Freda Higby • Oct 17, 2018 at 5:54 AM
Please! Use another name besides squaw it derogatory name whites call us Native American women , you should not try and sell your so call western Ideas using and. Falsely using our native culture by promoting your sales . Traditional silver and turquoise is part of haritage with our jewelry it meant our wealth .You should call it shanky white Boutique!!!!
Patrick Burnett • Oct 17, 2018 at 3:59 AM
This is so ungodly racist.
Brenda • Oct 17, 2018 at 2:52 AM
1000s of indigenius women, my ancestors, have been harrassed and raped and murdered under this racist slur.
How can you feel pride with a name like that??
Change it!
ruth • Oct 17, 2018 at 2:38 AM
ANOTHER WHITE WOMAN STEALING NATIVE CULTURE & TRYING TO MAKE A PROFIT.
YOU’RE ALSO USING A RACIST SLUUUUR AS YOUR STOREFRONT!
Lilithe • Oct 17, 2018 at 2:25 AM
“The English word Squaw is an ethnic and sexual slur, historically used for Indigenous North American women. Contemporary use of the term, especially by non-Natives, is considered offensive, derogatory, misogynist and racist.”
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Squaw
Change. The. Name.
H • Oct 17, 2018 at 1:34 AM
This name is hella racist. Is something wrong with you? I hope you will change it to something less offensive.
Trudy Garcia • Oct 17, 2018 at 1:16 AM
I admire following that you followed your dream. However the name you’ve chosen is indeed derogatory to Native American women. It may be in the dictionary but it was put in there without sufficient knowledge of the language and background. You need to know different tribes we’re at war and helped soldiers and settlers fight against their enemies. White soldiers and settlers would take Native women against their will and this term actually came about by the enemy tribes helping them. Hence the real meaning and the reason it is so offensive. I’m sure initially they knew what it meant but it became so common they actually thought it meant “wife or woman” the more it was used, but it does not.
Let’s take the word “bitch”. Acceptable as long as you are referring to a female dog but unacceptable the minute you refer to a woman. Would you name your boutique “The Spunky Bitch”? It clearly states in the Webster dictionary “squaw” is considered offensive. In light of the “Me too” movement and women of all colors coming together in support of each other of being victims no longer, I am respectfully asking you to change the name of your boutique not just because it is derogatory to Native women but is derogatory to all women.
We are not a hate group. We are Native people Indigenous to this country who have been colonized and just about obliterated from foreigners that came to our land. Despite that we have survived, contributed and fought for this country. All we are asking for is respect and honor. Your boutique name does not have honor for us or any woman. Honor yourself, change the name.
Meka • Oct 17, 2018 at 1:03 AM
Nothing funky and original about the name it’s just plain racist and I feel bad for your parents.
Diana Izard • Oct 17, 2018 at 12:55 AM
” I was starting an online boutique! The most difficult part of all of this was coming up with a name. I wanted to be completely different than any other store and I wanted something very catchy. I decided the name had to be Spunky Squaw because it was something funky and original.”
Your business name is not funky or original. It is racist term used to describe indigenous women.
AB • Oct 17, 2018 at 12:34 AM
PLEASE BE CONSCIOUS OF YOUR RACIST NAME !! BESIDES THE TACKINESS OF YOUR CLOTHING, THE TERM SQUAW IS BEYOUND SEXIST & RACIST!! TIME TO OPEN YOUR EYES!!!
Khadija Anderson • Oct 17, 2018 at 12:31 AM
Please change the name of this store. “Squaw” is a really bad name for an Indigenous woman. It’s really offensive.
Liv • Oct 17, 2018 at 12:16 AM
Your brand name is racist, stop playing the victim here and just change the name. As a white person you don’t get to decide if a racial slur is derogatory or not.
Jade • Oct 17, 2018 at 12:07 AM
This is terrible. Imagine all the young indigenous girls who see you doing this, thinking it’s okay, justifying this ridiculous boutique name. Imagine the hurt they feel after they’ve been called squaws their entire lives by white people in an attempt to shame them of their culture. Then you come along, name your boutique after the word, and suddenly it isn’t offensive? Google it. Google the word “squaw”. The definition says it is offensive in nature. Try again bitch.
Craig • Oct 17, 2018 at 12:01 AM
lol are you kidding me? the spunky squaw? this is a publication run by an educational institution? wow, texas is scary.
Carrie Mran McCleary • Oct 16, 2018 at 11:55 PM
Ms. Adams,
I am not a member of a hate group. I am, however a member of the Little Shell Chippewa Tribe.
The S-word, has never been acceptable.
In the 1930s a drunk white man in the streets of Malta Montana propositioned my great auntie & called her the S-word. My grandfather was there. He brutally beat the man and served a year in the State prison for his actions. As a young child in the 1970s when this story was once recounted my grandfather said he would take the same action that very day if the same situation arose.
In the 1990s a movement was introduced & a bill was passed to remove the S-word from any landmarks, creeks, roads, mountains etc in the State of Montana.
My husband served on the committee to rename those places in our state labeled with that despariging word,
If the entire State of Montana can recognize the need for the removal of this name, certainly you, now with a better education regarding its hateful connotations can also change.
Out respect to my mother, my sisters, my daughters and granddaughters please do the right thing.
Aho!
Carrie Moran McCleary
DEBRA SAWERS • Oct 16, 2018 at 11:43 PM
I invite you to change your racist name
Kathryn Mckibben • Oct 16, 2018 at 11:23 PM
Wow, what an incredibly ignorant and offensive name. Did you know that the word ‘squaw’ refers to a women’s pubic area? Did you also know that the Europeans that first started to invade our lands, would murder and cut off the womens pubic hair to obtain an award for murdering women?? Did you not do any type of research on the term or how offensive it is?? You must change the name.
Alexandra Jarrett • Oct 16, 2018 at 11:18 PM
Squaw is a very derogatory word. It does not mean native American woman. If it did I wouldn’t expect a slap from my kokum if I called her a squaw. Kokum means grandmother.
Eitan • Oct 16, 2018 at 11:10 PM
Hi there! I’m curious about the name of your brand. Where did it come from? I’ve always thought that ‘squaw’ was a derogatory term for an indigenous woman. Is this true, or perhaps there is other meaning behind the name you chose for your business? Thanks for the info!
Nancy Montour • Oct 16, 2018 at 10:40 PM
I’m sure you have nice clothes and talent but please know what you’re doing is wrong.
Squaw is a derogatory word and it is a racial slur.
It literally means cunt.
So you using a racist and disgusting word for your clothing is truly ignorant and I know you’ve been getting messages so LISTEN.
CHANGE THE NAME!!!!!!
Keely Purscell • Oct 16, 2018 at 10:38 PM
Squaw is a derogatory term for a n American Indian woman. If you want to have a derogatory name get one from your own culture. Call your boutique “White Trash Wear” or “Texas Twat”. Be yourself. Stop trying to imitate us.
I’m told White Trash is the worst thing your people can be called. Squaw is the same for indigenous women.
Quit now. We told you multiple times the name was rude and hurtful. Do the right thing. Find an name that isn’t offensive.
Ps,
don’t be calling your baby section the Papoose…..come on now!!! Really? Really? You got to insult our kids too?
Randy • Oct 16, 2018 at 10:09 PM
Did you know Natives don’t like the word squaw as it is in reference to the female private part therefore calling a girl that is calling them that part and not a woman or girl or her name, disgusting
Jewell Couch • Oct 16, 2018 at 10:04 PM
You do realize that the name you are using for your online store is a racial slur a derogatory term and downright hateful. The Spunky Squaw, mean prostitute covered in sperm.
As a Native American woman I find what you have done very very hateful
Luke Riley • Oct 16, 2018 at 9:50 PM
Why do you feel like it’s okay to use a racial slur in your name?
Jennifer • Oct 16, 2018 at 9:03 PM
The name of your boutique is offensive. The term squaw is a racist term. As an educator in a Native school, I can tell you first hand that the casual use of terms used to colonize (tape, sexually abuse, beat, and murder) Native people hurts our children.
Respect Others • Oct 16, 2018 at 8:13 PM
Your business is disrespectful toward indigenous women.
Please remove your thoughtless and derogatory business name.
It shows a lack of creativity, consideration and compassion.
Shannon Waters • Oct 16, 2018 at 7:10 PM
Umm… I’m a native American that IS VERY OFFENDED BY THE NAME. I get that your starting your business but the name has to go.
Paula Deen • Oct 16, 2018 at 6:41 PM
Perhaps you’re not aware that the “S” word translates to “cunt.” Essentially, you and your business is being named and monetized as “Spunky Cunts.” And if you were unaware also that “spunky” is slang for “ejaculate” or “cum.” The “S” word is a sexist epithet against Native American women and girls. It’s derisive and appalling.
Sara G Williams • Oct 16, 2018 at 6:00 PM
The name of this business is racist as well as sexist. Your imagery is the definition of cultural appropriation. This has been pointed out to you time and time again and you’re not listening. Learn something new, try and develop some empathy, and CHANGE THE NAME OF YOUR BUSINESS.
Delainee • Oct 16, 2018 at 5:19 PM
“Squ#w” ia a racial slur that was used by colonizers to demean Indigenous Women but you’re using it to make a profit, OKAY. Brooke, you were told politely by Indigenous People, that you should change your boutique name but you decided to be rude about it, I hope you lose support and customers.
Kevin Wesaquate • Oct 16, 2018 at 4:30 PM
This is the most outrageous and racist display I have ever encountered. Don’t you know that Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls is at the forefront of our fights for equality and self determination. Here you ‘students’ have the audacity to publish something so blatently racist! Take it down please. Thank you.
Randy Barrett • Oct 16, 2018 at 4:21 PM
Just to note that as a university newspaper, you actually allowed a guest columnist to self promote a boutique with specifically racist name, The Spunky Squaw.
Way to go champions of journalism.
Christina • Oct 16, 2018 at 4:19 PM
squaw
skwô/Submit
nounOFFENSIVE
noun: squaw; plural noun: squaws
an American Indian woman or wife.
OFFENSIVE•NORTH AMERICAN
a woman or wife.
Origin
mid 17th century: from Narragansett squaws ‘woman,’ with related forms in many Algonquian dialects.
Patricia Mcdonald • Oct 16, 2018 at 3:31 PM
I hope your business goes up in flames you4 racist inconsiderate bitch
Dom • Oct 15, 2018 at 7:32 PM
Why don’t you white hippy’s name your boutique something other than a name demeaning to aboriginal woman!!!
Sean McQuillan • Oct 15, 2018 at 7:23 PM
When your mother is called a nigger in school because shes dark but she corrects them saying shes native and they switch to calling her a Squaw, you may have a different opinion on if that word is something you should use in a name.
Sean McQuillan • Oct 15, 2018 at 7:22 PM
When your mother is called a nigger in school because shes dark but she corrects them saying shes nstive and they switch to calling her a Squaw, you may have a different opinion on if that word is something you should use in a name.
BIANCA ISAKI • Oct 15, 2018 at 7:20 PM
The name of this boutique is ignorant and offensive.
Shoshanna Reliwesk • Oct 15, 2018 at 7:05 PM
So I hear you don’t take well to criticism about your racist name and appropriation. How nice. I hope more people hear of your ignorance. Either that or I hope you find it in yourself to admit your wrong and find a more appropriate name. xo
Leta Kingfisher • Oct 15, 2018 at 7:05 PM
The name of you company is very racist and disrespectful to Native American women. It is a bastardization of the word iskwew which means woman. Squaw means slut or easy. We don’t say that word out loud.
Paula Cardinal • Oct 15, 2018 at 7:03 PM
Maybe you should have considered a different name that wasn’t offensive to Natives, possibly something such as, Spunky Settler or Spunky white woman!
Georgia • Oct 15, 2018 at 6:55 PM
your business title is very offensives and it came to my attention you do not care.
The diction even calls it offensives.
I hope you consider changing the name.
Stephanie • Oct 15, 2018 at 6:51 PM
In response to the “spunky squaw boutique”, I must be honest and say that using the term squaw is extreemly inappropriate to women and to indigenous people everywhere. I imagine this won’t change a thing but i will say that for every indigenous person whos families have been left without an identity who are searching to regain their lives the word squaw is taking a million steps backward. It shows how cold and uneducated people are about the realities of the human indignation that took place. It shows that YOU “Spunky Squaw” are cold and uneducated. Its not original… for hundreds of years settlers used that term against indigenous women to degrade and berade them. I will not support this brand. Its ugly.
Cheyenne Caza • Oct 15, 2018 at 6:28 PM
Why are you giving a woman with a horribly racist store name any kind of platform? I sincerely hope you all get an education in human compassion.
Jane • Oct 15, 2018 at 5:53 PM
What a racist thing to call tour boutique. Embarrassing.
Carla • Oct 15, 2018 at 5:11 PM
“I decided the name had to be Spunky Squaw because it was something funky and original.”
That name is actually not funky or original, it’s racist and a failed attempt at being edgy. The fact that you are proudly using a derogatory term for your “boutique” without any hint of awareness or remorse in 2018 is such a clear indication that you, JTAC News, and all of your pathetic customers are still living in time where oppressing people for the colour of their skin was okay. Think about that for a minute.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves -Philippians 2:3
Charlie • Oct 15, 2018 at 3:57 PM
The use of a racial slur as a company name shows just the type of person this woman is. Absolutely disgusting and disrespectful. She should be absolutely ashamed
janet • Oct 15, 2018 at 3:49 PM
I am so offended by your businesses name. my sister was taken 20 years ago and never seen again only because of racism and because these people consider us squaws…..for someone who is so fucken talented sure dont know fuck all about how offensive this is…please change your name !!!!!
Nora Kenney-Whitley • Oct 15, 2018 at 2:35 PM
I applaud you starting your own business, but do you have ANY idea how offensive the term “Squaw” is to Native people?
DeAnna Price • Feb 8, 2018 at 12:52 PM
Such a wonderful and talented young woman you have become. So proud of you.