Coeur D'Alene Idaho - Racism Or Inconsiderate?

Coeur d'Alene Idaho, known for its stunningmessage to the Native American residents and
resort, outdoor beauty, and quaint shops. Theneighbors. General Sherman was infamous for his
town is named after the Coeur d'Alene Indiansdislike of the Native Americans with quotes such
who traded with the first settlers as they arrivedas, "we must act with vindictive earnestness
by the boat load in this old mining town. They areagainst the Sioux, even to their extermination,
a source of pride in the small town, and theymen, women and children..." or "during an assault,
have been honored and they still teach the nativethe soldiers cannot pause to distinguish between
language at the local college.male and female, or even discriminate as to age".
Then as you begin to stroll down Sherman streetAre these the values the college and the town
you may give little notice to its namesake. Also, ifstand for? In a nation know for equality and the
you take a stroll through the local college campusconstant struggle many face for freedom this is
of North Idaho College you will see the a stillnot a reflection of the true spirit of Coeur d'Alene.
standing Fort Sherman. In front of the building youWhat about the University Campus itself what do
see a memorial plaque singing the praises of thethey represent as they house the structure of
great General Sherman. The plaque goes on to tellthe two memorials? They offer many courses
us that the once titled Fort Coeur d'Alene wasappreciating and celebrating the city's Native
renamed to honor this great man. The strangeAmerican history. A review of their vision
thing is, that although this man may have been astatement reads, "A caring, supportive learning
valued soldier and General he had an extremecommunity where the principles of equality are
hatred for Native Americans.modeled and promoted." This creates a glaring
Currently Fort Sherman and the Fort Shermanhypocrisy for the school. The college also has this
Officer's Quarters are located on the North Idahoto say in their values, "North Idaho College
College campus. These two structures weremodels, promotes and upholds respect,
renamed in the late 1800s to honor Williamcompassion, and equality for all persons, allowing
Tecumseh Sherman. Changed from the originalfor the co-existence of individual differences that
title of Fort Coeur d'Alene. A monument to amare vital to a diverse learning community."
man that wants nothing more than to kill theThe city of Coeur d'Alene overall is a peaceful
namesake of this great town.welcoming community; however, It is vital to no
Whether this is a oversight or a disregard oflonger honor a man who was a racist and a
respect one thing is certain. It sends the wrongmurderer of the people they claim to honor.