The Oregon Senate convened on May 29, 2025, to discuss several key legislative measures, with a significant focus on House Bill 35 32 b, aimed at renaming offensive geographic locations in the state. This bill, which passed with bipartisan support, seeks to expedite the renaming process for places that still carry derogatory terms, particularly those that have historically dehumanized Native women.

Senator Thatcher, who championed the bill, emphasized the importance of names in shaping community identity and dignity. She highlighted that many locations in Oregon still bear names deemed offensive, and the bill mandates the Oregon Geographic Names Board to identify and rename these places within three years. This initiative is part of a broader effort to honor the history and contributions of Indigenous peoples in Oregon.

The discussion included testimonies from tribal leaders and community members, reinforcing the need for respectful representation in place names. Senator Broadman echoed these sentiments, noting that the bill is a continuation of a long-standing commitment to inclusivity and respect for Oregon's Indigenous communities.

In addition to House Bill 35 32 b, the Senate also addressed several other legislative measures, including House Bill 11 82 a, which passed successfully, and various bills related to financial administration and emergency declarations. The meeting concluded with plans to carry over remaining house measures to the next session on June 2, 2025.

This legislative session marks a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive environment in Oregon, as lawmakers work to ensure that the state's geographic names reflect its diverse history and respect for all communities.