Summary of the Massachusetts State Flag Debate:
This article details the ongoing debate surrounding a potential redesign of the Massachusetts state flag and seal. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
The Current Flag:
* Features a Native American figure, encircled by a blue ribbon displaying the state motto in Latin (“Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem” – ”By the sword we seek peace, but peace under liberty”).
* The flag also includes an image of a raised arm holding a sword.
The Controversy:
* Calls for Removal: The Boston Human Rights Commission (HRC), under Mayor Michelle Wu, advocates for a new flag and seal without native American imagery, arguing its insulting, demeaning, and celebrates colonial violence against Indigenous populations.
* Native American Perspectives are Divided:
* Kathryn Akuahaha Watson (Hassanamisco Nipmuc Tribe): Supports keeping the Native American figure on the flag. She criticizes the commissions tasked with redesigning the flag for deviating from their original goal of addressing the “harmful imagery” (the sword) while retaining the Native American figure. She believes the removal proposal lacks proper justification and due process, and that Native American input was insufficient (particularly during Pow Wow season).She emphasizes the ancient significance of the seal.
* Senator Collins: Aligns with Watson, accusing Mayor Wu of trying to “cancel” Native American depiction. He claims the Wu’s position is alienating the Native American community.
* Motto Debate: Senator Collins also wants to keep the state motto in Latin, arguing it’s inclusive of speakers of languages derived from Latin commonly spoken in Massachusetts.
Key Players:
* Senator Nick Collins: Leading the opposition to the redesign, advocating for keeping the Native American figure and latin motto.
* Kathryn Akuahaha Watson: Elder and tribal advisor supporting Collins’ position.
* Mayor Michelle Wu & Boston HRC: Supporting a flag and seal redesign that removes Native American imagery.
In essence, the debate centers on whether the current flag’s imagery perpetuates harm and fails to represent modern values, or whether it holds historical significance and should be preserved, particularly with the support of some within the Native American community.
