“Turners” is more offensive than “Indians”

Food for thought: Much is being said about the defamation put forth by the use of the term “Indians” by the Turners Falls athletic teams.

But from where I sit and based upon the stories I have heard, I’m thinking that maybe what really should be discussed is the use of the name Turner in Turners Falls.

Isn’t Capt. William Turner the man who led a contingent of white men, surrounded a peaceful encampment of Indians next to the Connecticut River and proceeded to indiscriminately slaughter them, including many women and children?

Not many towns that I know of are named after mass murderers.

It seems to me that using the name Indians is a measure of recognition and respect, whereas the use of Turner’s name is the real insult to the local Native Americans.

Or let the Indians themselves decide. Who are we (white folks) to determine if it is offensive to Indians.

Hank Eggert

Hawley