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Maynard endorses petition urging change to Massachusetts flag and seal
Summary
A citizen petition asking Maynard to endorse changing the Massachusetts state flag and seal—citing historical violence and inaccurate imagery—was presented and approved, sending the town’s support to state lawmakers.
A citizen petition (Article 27) asking Maynard to request the state legislature change the Massachusetts flag and seal passed after presentations and public comment.
Heather O’Brien, a member of the Historical Commission and a longtime town resident, presented background on the seal’s development and explained why Indigenous leaders and tribes have called for change: the historic seal imagery, she said, depicts a subjugated Indigenous person and a sword above the figure, which many view as a symbol of colonial violence. O’Brien recounted the symbol’s disputed origins and urged voters to give voice to Indigenous calls for a redesign at the state level.
Supporters told personal stories and urged the town to add its name to a growing list of municipalities encouraging the Legislature to act; opponents questioned whether the town should weigh in on a state symbol and said other priorities exist. Moderator Downey put the citizen petition to a ballot vote; the motion carried and the town’s vote will be transmitted to state representatives as a recommendation from Maynard’s legislative body.
