Professor Monson advocates for official Utah demonym legislation at state committee meeting

In a recent meeting of the Senate Economic Development and Workforce Services Committee, a proposal to officially recognize the spelling of "Utahn" gained significant attention. Professor Quinn Monson from Brigham Young University presented compelling evidence supporting the change, highlighting a strong preference among Utah residents for the spelling without an additional "a."

Monson's research, conducted in 2021, revealed that over 90% of Utahns prefer the spelling "Utahn," a sentiment echoed across various demographic groups, including political affiliations and religious backgrounds. He noted that local news outlets, such as the Deseret News and the Salt Lake Tribune, consistently use the correct spelling, while national publications like the New York Times and USA Today often misspell it, with accuracy rates as low as 36.8%.

The professor emphasized the importance of this spelling in shaping the identity of Utah residents and urged for its inclusion in state law. He expressed hope that this legislative move would encourage national media to adopt the correct spelling, thereby fostering a more accurate representation of Utahns.

The committee appeared receptive to the proposal, with no immediate objections raised during the discussion. The bill, which enjoys over 90% public support, is seen as a straightforward yet impactful initiative to solidify Utah's identity in the national narrative.

As the committee deliberates further, the potential for this legislation to enhance the recognition of Utah residents and their culture remains a focal point, reflecting a broader commitment to accurately represent the state's identity in both local and national contexts.