Town Wrestles with Whose History to Celebrate

November 30, 2023
• With legislation pending in front of the Massachusetts Legislature, the Select Board is mulling over what it wants to do about Columbus Day.

It may be a federal holiday, but only about half of the United States backs it up with an officially recognized state observance. Even within those that do recognize the day, such as Massachusetts, there has been an ongoing effort to acknowledge the controversial and troubling history tied with commemorating Columbus Day. Momentum has been growing behind those who wish to celebrate Indigenous People’s Day, and the town is currently debating what they would like to lend support to. With matters of cultural sensitivity in conflict, and tradition being challenged, it is not as simple an issue as it may first appear. Municipal Producer Yuxiao Yuan attended the public hearing held on Nov. 28.

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