How does the USGS address derogatory and (or) offensive words, names, and phrases that may be found in USGS scientific information products? [012]

By Office of Science Quality and Integrity

The U.S. Geological Survey is committed to addressing derogatory and (or) offensive words, names, and phrases as detailed in a Survey Manual Instructional Memorandum and guidance by the Board of Geographic Names. [Read More]

(Updated 12/04/24)

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is committed to addressing derogatory and (or) offensive words, names, and phrases that may be found in its previously published scientific information products and preventing their use in the future as detailed in Survey Manual Instructional Memorandum (IM) policy IM OSQI 2024-01 - Derogatory and (or) Offensive Words, Names, and Phrases in USGS Information Products. In addition to the Board on Geographic Names guidance for addressing three derogatory or offensive words, there are many words, names, and phrases beyond those three that may need to be addressed. Also refer to frequently asked questions related to Department of the Interior Secretary Orders 3404 and 3405.