Week 2 September 18: Native Origins (Environment and Green Spaces)

I’m surprised to say this, but in my four years, almost five, in Cambridge as a Harvard student, I don’t think I’ve ever seen the Massachusetts state flag. Upon further research on government websites, I learned that the Massachusetts flag is a white flag with a blue shield that depicts a Massachuset with a bow in one hand and an arrow in the other, with the arrow pointing downward as a symbol of peace. The presence of a white star signifies Massachusetts as one of the original thirteen states. Here, we can see the interaction between the writings of colonial history and indigenous history. If I were to memorialize the Massachuset, I would want to create something more dynamic or interactive. For example, a public fountain that is engraved with traditional Massachusett decor or a canoe-like bench opens up more conversations than a stern bronze statue. Not only is this type of monument better connected with public life, it also allows for tactile engagement that provides more historical context than a simple educational plaque alone. Additionally, community events and cultural programs could be organized around this fountain or canoe to educate about and honor the Massachusetts people’s contributions and resilience throughout history.