Petition Launched To Change Name Of Indian Fields Elementary

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — An online petition is currently circulating to change the name of Indian Fields Elementary School in South Brunswick.

The petition was started by a woman named Gillian Chambres and so far, about 1,475 people have signed it. She suggests the South Brunswick school district talk with current Lenape tribe members to ask what the school should be called.

"The term 'Indians' in reference to indigenous people is outdated," wrote Chambres in the petition. "Indigenous people in America should be referred to by their specific tribe names or the umbrella term of indigenous or Native Americans. As a community that prides itself on diversity and respect, we believe it is important to respect and honor the Lenape people."

However, Chambres later edited her petition to write that: "After a discussion with the town historian, we learned that 'Lenape Fields Elementary School,' may not successfully honor the Lenape people, but rather reinforce the legacy of colonialism. Thus, we advocate for a name — with accurate spelling, language and pronunciation — derived from conversations with Lenni Lenape tribe members."

Neither South Brunswick school superintendent Scott Feder, nor Board of Education president Barry Nathanson responded when Patch asked if the district is formally considering changing the name.

The petition will however, be presented to the South Brunswick BOE at some point this summer.

The school itself actually sits on land that once belonged to the local Leni Lenape tribe, who lived in the South Brunswick area before European settlers arrived.

Indian Fields was so named after ancient Lenape artifacts were uncovered while the school was being built.

"We also understand that this is the first step in a long journey of social and racial justice," wrote Chambres. "We do not expect nor anticipate immediate action. We simply want our voices to be heard and the renaming of Indian Fields to be highlighted as a social issue within South Brunswick."

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