麻州長和總檢察長發佈更新版中小學因應仇恨、歧視指南

Governor Healey, Attorney General Campbell Issue Guidance on Addressing Hate and Bias in K-12 Schools 

Healey-Driscoll Administration awards $1.3 million in Genocide Education Grants, $338,000 in Hate Crime Prevention Grants 

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura T. Healey and Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell released updated guidance to K-12 schools on how to address hate and bias-motivated incidents consistent with their legal obligations. The guidance comes amid a rise in antisemitism, racism, anti-LGBTQ+ hate, Islamophobia, and hate across the globe, the country and Massachusetts – including a rise in hate-fueled assaults, incidents of white supremacist propaganda, discriminatory bullying and harassment in Massachusetts K-12 schools. 

The guidance has been specifically updated to help school districts distinguish between protected student speech and unprotected bullying and harassment. It reminds school districts of their legal obligations to allow for discourse and expression of different viewpoints while also promptly investigating and responding to any and all incidents of alleged harassment or bullying. It also calls on school districts to take affirmative steps to create school environments that are safe and inclusive for all students and prevent hate and bias incidents from occurring.   

“It pains me to see the rise in antisemitism, anti-LGBTQ+ hate, racism, Islamophobia and hate happening across our state, our country, and the world. I’m particularly concerned about the prevalence of hate and violence in our schools. I know that our communities are hurting, and they are frightened,” said Governor Healey. “Attorney General Campbell and I are issuing this guidance to send a clear message that hate has no place in Massachusetts – especially not in our schools. This guidance and these grants are giving our schools the tools they need to better prevent and respond to hate. Together, we can ensure that our schools are safe, welcoming, inclusive environments for all students.” 

“Our administration strongly condemns hate of all kinds. But with hate crimes on the rise across our state, it’s essential that we act,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This guidance empowers schools to better prevent hate, support the mental health and wellbeing of their students, and celebrate our amazing, diverse, and inclusive communities.” 

“It’s crucial that our schools take a firm stand against hate, discrimination, and bullying while also protecting students’ rights to free speech and expression, particularly in the context of ongoing violence both here and abroad,” said AG Campbell. “I am proud to partner with Governor Healey to release this updated guidance, which will help school districts navigate their legal obligations in this area and foster safe and inclusive environments for all.” 

The Healey-Driscoll Administration and Attorney General’s Office’s approach to addressing hate is focused on awareness, education, and understanding. Their goal is to create environments that are safe for self-expression and conducive to dialogue and learning. This requires celebrating diverse perspectives, teaching the histories of marginalized communities, honoring their contributions to Massachusetts society, and creating safe forums for self-expression and discourse. 

The updated legal guidance is accompanied by a Q&A designed for school leaders, families, and community members, and a “quick guide” flyer for families and students on responding to hate and discriminatory bullying and harassment. These documents help to ensure that all school officials have the information and tools they need to proactively create school environments that promote learning and dialogue, prevent and denounce hate in all its forms, and effectively address hate incidents when they occur. 

Next month, the Attorney General’s Office will hold a Webinar training session for school leaders/principals, superintendents and school district attorneys to educate them about this updated guidance and answer any questions.   

To further bolster schools’ efforts to respond to hate crimes, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has also awarded over $338,000 in Hate Crime Prevention grants to eight school districts. These are designed to support or expand programs that help educators, staff, administrators, and students reduce incidents of bias in schools. Funding supports educator professional development, community engagement and other costs associated with tackling the reduction of acts of bias and hate crimes in Massachusetts K-12 schools. This investment promotes school partnerships and collaboration with local community organizations and law enforcement, including local human rights organizations that have relationships and expertise in promoting equity, building positive school climates, preventing hate crimes, and addressing bias-motivated incidents.  

DESE has also awarded $1.34 million in Genocide Education Grants to 43 Local Education Agencies, which supports districts in selecting and/or developing curriculum, providing professional development, and creating enrichment experiences related to genocide education. The program aims to train educators in content knowledge and teaching skills relevant to genocide education, more fully and sustainably incorporate genocide education resources into core curricula and provide meaningful learning experiences for students relating to genocide education.  

“Schools should be places where all students, staff, and families are welcomed, and diversity is championed. Here in Massachusetts, we stand firmly against hate – and we are backing up that commitment by delivering this guidance and these investments, so schools are equipped with the tools and knowledge they need to foster safe and inclusive environments that allow every student to feel supported and thrive,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler.  

“These grants are important investments in building safe and respectful school communities where all students are known and valued,” said Acting Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education Russell D. Johnston. “Both the hate crimes prevention and genocide education grants are built on avoiding the mistakes of the past and recognizing the dignity in everyone.”  

To report a school-based incident of hate or bias, individuals may contact the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division online or at 617-963-2817.  

Fiscal Year 2024 Hate Crime Prevention Grant Round Two Recipients: 

School District Recipient	Award
Boston Collegiate Charter	$50,000
Danvers Public Schools	$50,000
Hadley Public Schools	$35,945
Lynn Public Schools	$43,000
Middleborough Public Schools	$19,000
Sandwich Public Schools	$50,000
Wayland Public Schools	$50,000
Westport Public Schools	$40,120

FY24 and FY25 Genocide Education Grant Recipients: 

Local Education Agency Recipient	Award
Andover	$40,000
Arlington	$39,500
Boston Collegiate Charter	$20,000
Bridge Boston Charter	$20,000
Brookline	$60,000
Cambridge	$60,000
Codman Academy	$16,000
Community Day Charter	$36,225
Collaborative for Regional Educational Service and Training	$20,000
Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School District	$15,000
Fitchburg	$40,000
Gloucester	$40,000
Hadley	$1,900
Haverhill	$60,000
Holliston	$31,150
Holyoke	$33,700
Littleton	$40,000
Lynn	$60,000
Lynnfield	$40,000
Malden	$40,069
Manchester Essex Regional School District	$30,000
Marshfield	$15,300
Mashpee	$21,600
Mendon-Upton	$39,370
New Heights Charter	$6,000
Newburyport	$40,000
Newton	$59,750
North Andover	$39,500
Northampton	$18,400
Northborough and Southborough (joint award)	$20,000
Northboro-Southboro	$16,500
Peabody	$60,000
Phoenix Charter Academy	$20,000
Randolph	$15,390
Salem	$15,085
Shrewsbury	$19,320
Somerset Berkley Regional School District	$20,000
South Shore Charter	$40,000
Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical	$29,250
Stoneham	$40,000
Woburn	$14,080
Worcester	$50,000

麻州經濟發展廳廳長郝依平推廣MA250 (視頻)

 

Healey-Driscoll Administration Kicks Off First Year of Literacy Launch

Healey-Driscoll Administration Kicks Off First Year of Literacy Launch

Multi-year program expands access to evidence-based literacy instruction through professional development and high-quality materials

CLINTON — Today, the Healey-Driscoll Administration, state legislators, local officials and educators celebrated the kick-off of Literacy Launch: Reading Success from Age 3 through Grade 3, Governor Maura Healey’s new approach to improving early literacy. Literacy Launch makes sure Massachusetts schools, educators and students have access to high-quality, evidence-based reading instruction through literacy materials, technical support, coaching and professional development for educators.

The first year of this new, multi-year strategy is supported by $20 million in the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) budget and represents a key investment in the future of early learners, helping equip students with the reading and writing skills necessary for academic success and lifelong learning.

Governor Healey announced today at Clinton Elementary School that a request for proposals is currently open for public school districts and charter schools to apply for the Partnership for Reading Success – Massachusetts (PRISM) grants. These competitive grants, funded through Literacy Launch, will provide awardees with professional development, support to create partnerships with community-based preschool providers to align evidence-based early curriculum,

 instruction and assessment across the community, funding for early literacy screening assessments, coaching support and funding to cover staffing costs for roles like literacy coaches or reading specialists. Proposals are due October 1, 2024.

“Massachusetts is ranked number one in the country for schools, and we want to be number one for literacy too. Literacy Launch will help us reach that goal by giving more students the instruction they need to be able to read and read well,” said

Governor Maura Healey. “I’m grateful for the Legislature’s partnership to make Literacy Launch a reality and look forward to our continued collaboration to make Massachusetts the best place to live, work, raise a family and go to school."

“One of the most important aspects of our Literacy Launch Initiative is how we’ll support our teachers in adopting best practices,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This funding will make the best reading instructional materials available to more districts and offer help implementing them. Under this administration’s leadership, and in partnership with the Legislature, we are going to continue to accelerate critical efforts to improve early literacy.”

In the first year of Literacy Launch, the administration will help up to 45 school districts transition to a strong, evidence-based literacy program through a competitive grant program, including acquisition of high-quality materials and long-term technical support from The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). It will also update approval criteria and accelerate review timelines for teacher education programs that are now required to provide evidence-based early literacy training. The program will be implemented by the Executive Office of Education in coordination with DESE and the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC).

“Early literacy has been a priority for me and our Secretariat since I joined the administration, and I am honored to join Governor Healey today to kick off our new early literacy initiative - Literacy Launch. Literacy Launch will help transform early literacy learning in Massachusetts, building a critical foundation in reading and writing,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “Thanks to Governor Healey’s leadership and our state Legislature, we are launching one of the most comprehensive literacy approaches in the country – providing districts with the support they need and the funding necessary to adopt best practices. The $20 million investment in the FY25 budget is not only a downpayment on students’ success, but on our economy and competitiveness.”

As part of the administration’s on-going work to improve early literacy, DESE is also launching an improve Mass Literacy Guide that incorporates feedback from educators, administrators and the community. This interactive, web- based resource and information hub provides high-quality instructional resources and information for educators to support their teaching, as well as information about how young children learn how to read and write and about instruction that is based in current evidence. Additionally, under programs like Growing Literacy Equity Across Massachusetts (GLEAM) and Accelerating Literacy grants, DESE has been offering opportunities for districts to receive multi-year technical support and funding for improvements in literacy teaching and materials. DESE also offers Appleseeds, a completely free, evidence-based reading foundational skills curriculum for students in grades K-2. The state was also recently awarded $38.4 million in federal funding over the next five years to further expand evidence-based and culturally and linguistically sustaining practices for English language arts and literacy in grades pre-K through 12 through additional grants to districts and schools.  

“Massachusetts has been in need of the transformational investment that Literacy Launch is bringing to our classrooms,” said Acting Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education Russell D. Johnston. “We are happy to bring things resources to districts, educators and students.”

“Early education is the start of the educational journey for our youngest learners. The Administration’s comprehensive, cross-secretariat Literacy Launch initiative will set our children up for educational success and a love of reading, helping children to develop the language and literacy skills they need and closing the learning gap before they enter kindergarten,” said Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw. 

In recognition of the critical role that early educators and preschool providers play in children’s literacy learning, students as young as 3 are an important focus of Literacy Launch and the state’s existing approach to improving early literacy. The Department of Early Education and Care is working with partners to conduct a statewide assessment of preschool literacy needs and create a Massachusetts Preschool Kindergarten Transition Toolkit for the early education mixed-delivery system.

“Learning how to read is the cornerstone of a lifetime of success, and the Literacy Launch program is going to open that door to students in schools across the entire state,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This initiative was a point of pride in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, and I’m grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for implementing it with the speed and energy it deserves.”

“As a former teacher, I have seen first hand the importance of ensuring all students have access to high-quality early literacy programs, as becoming a strong reader from a young age is a crucial step towards long-term academic success,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I'm proud of the work we have done in the Legislature to make Massachusetts a national leader in education, but we know more can be done to support our youngest readers, and I'm grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for its strong commitment to this important issue." 

Massachusetts has consistently been a national leader in education. With the kickoff of Literacy Launch, we will continue this investment by expanding access to evidence-based early literacy,” said State Senator Jason Lewis (D-Winchester), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “This initiative was funded by the Legislature’s Fiscal Year 2025 state budget and will utilize high-quality educational materials and professional development to better support our children from the start and set them up for future success down the line.

“Literacy is fundamentally important for our youngest learners in every single district in our Commonwealth. We know that children must learn to read by third grade so they can read to learn throughout their educational journey,” said Representative Denise Garlick (D-Needham), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Education.

“Literacy Launch will build on our efforts to increase access to evidence-based literacy materials and to provide educators professional development and support.”

"Today is a celebration of our students and our Commonwealth's commitment to provide them with the best education possible," saidSenator John J. Cronin (D-Fitchburg). "Massachusetts is a leader on so many issues and, with this program, will continue to be the best place in the country, and the world, to receive an education. I'm grateful to Governor Healey for her leadership on this issue and am excited for the impact it will have on students here in Clinton and across North Central Mass."

“I am proud to join Governor Healey in visiting Clinton Public Schools and highlighting the work being done right here by our incredible teaches, students, and staff to promote early literacy. We all know how vital these foundational skills are and I am thrilled that this funding will be used to ensure schools like Clinton Public Schools will be better equipped to ensure every child in Massachusetts has access to high-quality reading instruction from the very beginning,” said Representative Meghan Kilcoyne (D-Clinton). “This program is not just an investment in education; it’s an investment in our future. By prioritizing literacy, we empower our students with the foundational skills they need to succeed throughout their lives.”

"Improving literacy has profound effects on bettering lives at any age, but efforts made with students in early education can make a monumental difference by giving children the foundation to reach their full potential,” said Clinton Town Manager Michael J. Ward. “Literacy Launch is making that happen here in Clinton. Congratulations to the Clinton Public Schools on this recognition and for the importance they place on reading and literacy. I am proud of the successes they are having with funding under this program and thank Governor Healey for recognizing the need and for her support in helping our children."

MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES 2024 LATINX HERITAGE MONTH EVENTS

MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES 2024 LATINX HERITAGE MONTH EVENTS Celebrations across Boston will take place now through mid-October

BOSTON - Thursday, September 19, 2024 - Mayor Michelle Wu and the City of Boston today announced the start of Latinx Heritage Month celebrations, which will run through October. Latinx Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 - October 15, which coincides with the Independence Day celebrations of several Latin American countries. Latinx cultures and communities are celebrated during this month to honor their contributions to the cultural fabric of Boston.  “Boston’s Latinx residents bring so much joy and rich culture to our communities,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “This month we have an exciting lineup of events to celebrate our residents’ Latinx heritage where Bostonians can learn about this incredible community and the vibrancy they bring to our city.” "As we celebrate Latinx Heritage Month, we honor diversity within the Latinx community as our greatest strength and potential for impact,” said Chief of Equity and Inclusion Mariangely Solis Cervera. “We, Latinx people, influence culture, policy, education, and the global economy. While we celebrate our gente this month, we work with them all year long.” To kick off the festivities, the City of Boston hosted Fiesta en la Plaza on September 15 on City Hall Plaza, organized by Ágora Cultural Architects and co-sponsored by the Cultural Affairs Office. Fiesta en la Plaza featured performances by award-winning Puerto Rican saxophonist Edmar Colón & pianist Alain Mallet, Fabiola Méndez Trio, Meta Movements dance group, and the Colombian artist Manuela Sánchez Goubert and her band.  “As a Dominican-born Latina who immigrated to Boston at a young age, Latinx Heritage Month holds a deep, personal significance for me. It’s a time to celebrate not only the richness of our diverse cultures but also the incredible contributions that Latino communities have made to this city,” said Alexandra Valdez, Director of Cultural Affairs. “The Office of Cultural Affairs plays a critical role in creating spaces where all cultures can thrive and be celebrated. We are committed to ensuring that Boston remains a place where every voice is heard, and every heritage is honored, because it is through this diversity that our city grows stronger and more vibrant.” . The Boston Public Library will be offering resources and hosting programming throughout Latinx Heritage Month to expand opportunities for residents to learn more about Latinx culture. A full list of events and resources is available on the BPL website.  Below are other celebrations taking place through Latinx Heritage Month: Cinefest Latino Boston Santiago De las Mujeres Thursday, September 19th, 6:00 p.m. Inspired by his hometown Loíza’s diverse and inventive culture, Puerto Rican artist Daniel Lind-Ramos combs the beaches and streets for palm fronds, items that wash up on the shore, and discarded everyday materials that speak to the story of the Caribbean. Transformed into artwork that reflects the history and energy of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. Location: Boston City Hall - Civic Pavilion, 5 Congress Street, Downtown Note: This documentary will be in Spanish with English subtitles. Event is free for all El Mundo Hispanic History Month Annual Breakfast  Friday, September 20, 7:00 - 10:00 a.m. The annual El Mundo breakfast will celebrate the Latin American community and their contributions to the city and state. There will be an awards presentation recognizing individuals that make the area's Latinx community special.  Location: Park Plaza Hotel, 50 Park Plaza, Back Bay Note: This event requires a ticket. For more information, contact El Mundo East Boston Latin Music & Dance Festival  Saturday, September 21, 1:00 - 7:00 p.m.  This event will feature Latin American music and dance, food, kids’ activities, local arts & crafts vendors, and more.  Location: East Boston Memorial Park, 143 Porter Street, East Boston Age Strong Senior Luncheon  Wednesday, October 2, 11:00am - 2:00 p.m. Come celebrate LatinX Heritage Month with Boston’s older residents. This is the 20th year the Age Strong Commission has hosted this event. Location: Reggie Lewis Track Center, 1350 Tremont Street, Roxbury  City of Boston Latinx History Month Celebration  Wednesday, October 2nd, 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. The Office of Cultural Affairs and Latinx Employee Resource Group will co-host a Latinx Heritage Month celebration party. The celebration will feature food, music, dance, and other resources from city departments.  Location: City Hall Plaza, 1 City Hall Square, Downtown

慶美國獨立250週年 麻州撥150萬給37組織回顧歷史

麻州政要在州政府大樓前啟動「麻州250」慶祝系列。(周菊子攝)

 

前左三起，麻州副州長Kim Driscoll，州長Maura Healey，參議員Paul Mark，

麻州經濟發展廳廳長郝依平 (Yvonne Hao)，眾議員Mindy Domb， 麻州旅遊辦公室

執行主任Kate Fox等人宣佈啟動「麻州250」。(周菊子攝)

            (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓綜合報導) 麻州州長奚莉 (Maura Healey) 和經濟發展廳廳長郝依平 (Yvonne Hao)，波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu) 攜手，9月17日率領麻州政要及相關單位人員，在州政府大樓前宣佈，斥資150萬元，啟動為期2年的美國獨立250週年及麻州革命歷史慶祝。

              奚莉州長強調，麻州擁有許多個美國第一，奠定了麻州與美國的發展根基，如今慶祝250週年，麻州要「以史為鑑」，站在「歷史」的肩膀上，推動經濟發展，邁向更好的未來。

代表自由兒女，穿著革命戰爭時期服裝的歷史重演者，和麻州州長Maura Healey
同台，銜接250年歷史。(周菊子攝)

              奚莉州長、Kim Driscoll 副州長和郝依平廳長等人在歷史重演人物保羅瑞維爾 (Paul Revere) 騎馬趕到儀式現場，3名身穿革命戰爭時期服裝，代表「自由子女 (sons and daughters of Liberty)」人士宣讀文告後，宣佈麻州啟動慶祝美國獨立250週年，麻州打響革命戰爭第一槍的系列活動，將經由麻州旅遊辦公室 (MOTT)撥發150萬元補助款，支持37個機構在未來2年內辦理數以百計的文化及社區活動，宣揚麻州在美國獨立戰爭中的歷史地位，以及各族裔所曾有貢獻等許多未曾被述說的故事。

前左起，波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu)、麻州副州長Kim Driscoll，州長Maura Healey
麻州經濟發展廳廳長郝依平 (Yvonne Hao)聯袂啟動「麻州250」。(周菊子攝)

              奚莉州長在致詞時細數麻州歷來的第一，包括全美第一所公立學校，第一各公共圖書館設在麻州，在教育、醫療護理及創新，生兒育女及居住上，排名全美第一。在現場的波士頓動力公所所製造機器狗 Spot，就是創新領先的見證之一。如今麻州還在投資未來，研發疾病療法、疫苗來治療世界上，領先群倫。未來2年，「麻州250」將在全州各地推出活動，持續慶祝麻州的歷史，以及一切使得麻州這麼特殊的人與事，吸引遊客，帶動地方經濟。

麻州州長Maura Healey誓言為麻州增加更多第一。 (周菊子攝)

              麻州經濟發展廳廳長郝依平說，她上任一年半以來，最特別的一件事就是應邀在一大早5點半左右，到勒星頓綠地，參加「世界聽到的第一聲槍響 (Shot Heard Around the World)」歷史重演活動。她強調麻州政府有奚莉、Kim Driscoll正副州長率領著最好的團隊和最好的波士頓市長吳弭，一起來回顧、反思過去的這250年，同時也展望未來，要因應氣候變遷，2場戰爭，社會中有許多分歧意見，科技進步神速等等狀況。

              郝依平指出，印有許多麻州第一的那件T恤，上面還有許多空位，意味著麻州團隊將繼續努力田寫出更多第一。

              麻州經濟發展廳下的麻州旅遊辦公室 (MOTT)將負責管理「麻州250

麻州經濟發展廳廳長郝依平 (Yvonne Hao)為「麻州250」看歷史，望未來。(周菊子攝)

補助項目」，和地方政府、社區組織，以及企業合作，紀念麻州的革命歷史，包括「世界聽到的第一聲槍響 (Shot Heard Around the World)」，這代表1775年4月19日，在勒星頓及康可鎮響起的獨立戰爭第一聲槍響歷史，邦克丘戰役 (Battle of Bunker Hill)，波士頓茶黨，保羅瑞維爾騎行 (Paul Revere’s Ride)等，以及強調美國原住民，婦女，有色人種在形塑美國及麻州上的重要角色。這些有創意的活動將主要由波士頓本地的創意行銷公司Proberb

波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu)應邀參加「麻州250」啟動式。(周菊子攝)

負責，將在紐約時代廣場掛出佈告牌，在外州推出數位及社交媒體等行銷活動。

              麻州議會為此成立了「美國革命250週年特別委員會」，由麻州旅遊、藝術及文化發展聯席委員會的參議會主席Paul Mark，眾議會主席Mindy Domb聯袂擔任主席。

麻州250的T恤上印有麻州第一的一長串名單。(周菊子攝)

              已獲准納入「麻州250補助」名單的機構包括劍橋市、雀喜市，秋河市、塞冷市、阿靈頓鎮，康可鎮，Weymouth鎮等地方市鎮，以及自由徑 (Freedom Trail)基金會，大波士頓創新徑 (The Innovation Trail of Greater Boston)，美國憲法號博物館，布魯克蘭鎮白蛇計畫 (White Snake Projects)等。

              查詢「麻州250」詳情，可上網massachusetts250.org。 (更新版)

「麻州250」慶祝系列啟動儀式還邀來波士頓動力公司著名的機器狗 SPOT。(周菊子攝)

 Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Massachusetts 250 Initiative to Celebrate the Anniversary of America’s Independence 

Statewide Initiative will Commemorate Massachusetts’ Pivotal Role in America’s Founding; Launch Included Announcement of $1.5 Million in Grants for Revolutionary War Cultural Programming

麻州州長Maura Healey在儀式結束後上馬騎行，嚐嚐當Paul Revere的滋味。
(周菊子攝)

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll joined Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, state officials, legislators, and representatives from the Massachusetts arts, culture, and tourism industry at the State House to launch Massachusetts 250, a statewide initiative to celebrate 250 years of America’s independence and Massachusetts’ revolutionary legacy. The initiative will highlight the state’s rich history and amplify untold stories of the Revolution through hundreds of cultural and community events over the next two years.  

Today’s event included a grand display with reenactors, dignitaries, and historic militia personnel joining the celebration on the steps of the State House. During the event, Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll also announced $1.5 million in grants to 37 organizations through the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) to support the development of projects that promote Massachusetts’ Revolutionary War history.  

啟動儀式現場還有馬隊。(周菊子攝)

“Massachusetts is where the Revolution began and where the Revolution continues. We are first in freedom, first in education, first in health care and first in innovation. And with Massachusetts 250, we’re leading commemorations of the Revolutionary War for the next two years,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Massachusetts 250 is a statewide, ongoing celebration of our history and everything that makes our state special. We’re excited to launch this campaign which will draw visitors, drive local economies, and share the whole story of Massachusetts and our nation through the voices of every community.” 

啟動儀式現場強調歷史重演，請來英軍鼓笛隊。(周菊子攝)

“Massachusetts 250 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate Massachusetts’ history and showcase the state as a top destination for visitors from across the country and worldwide,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Statewide partnerships and events will commemorate our revolutionary spirit, highlighting the far-reaching impacts of Massachusetts in revolutionary history and the many other firsts that originated here, creating a powerful celebration of our civic pride.”  

The Massachusetts 250 Grant Program, administered by MOTT within the Executive Office of Economic Development, will fund projects that highlight historic themes of revolution and independence, celebrate significant "firsts" in Massachusetts history, and take a creative or innovative approach to commemorating the state’s past 250 years. A full list of grant recipients is available online.  

“The Semiquincentennial is a tremendous economic opportunity for Massachusetts businesses and cultural institutions that will offer world-class experiences to visitors eager to participate in these historic occasions,” said Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao. “We're excited to see the creative campaign drive economic activity within our local and regional economies and thrilled to see grant recipients showcase the iconic stories of Massachusetts’ revolutionary past.”  

“This campaign captures the significance of Massachusetts as a force for innovation, a cultural cornerstone, and a foundation of our nation,” said MOTT Executive Director Kate Fox. “Massachusetts 250 is an incredible opportunity to elevate the contributions and assets of our state, allowing visitors to experience how Massachusetts has played a pivotal role in America’s independence while engaging with all of our natural beauty and historical and cultural institutions. We look forward to welcoming everyone to celebrate this national milestone here in Massachusetts.”   

The Massachusetts 250 creative campaign will collaborate with municipalities, community groups, businesses, and local organizations to commemorate the state’s revolutionary history over the next two years. Statewide partnerships and programs will engage locals and visitors in experiences that narrate iconic historical moments like the Shot Heard Around the World, Battle of Bunker Hill, Boston Tea Party, and Paul Revere’s Ride. Library programs, Revolutionary Weekends, and signature events will highlight the untold stories of Native Americans, women, and people of color who played crucial roles in shaping America and Massachusetts. The creative campaign, spearheaded by the Boston-based creative marketing firm Proverb, will include billboards in Times Square in New York City and other out-of-state markets, as well as digital and social media ads.    

"Massachusetts 250 builds on the work that has been done by the Special Commission on the 250^th Anniversary of the American Revolution and historic organizations throughout the Commonwealth to launch Massachusetts forward as we highlight our contributions to the founding of the United States over the next two years,” said Senator Paul Mark, Co-Chair of the Special Commission on the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution and Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development. “The grants being awarded today will help support the collaborative efforts that will ensure that Massachusetts successfully showcases our amazing history and attractions while also demonstrating our leadership and potential for the future."  

"This Massachusetts250 campaign will help to highlight Massachusetts' pivotal role as the birthplace of the American Revolution and showcase the Commonwealth’s legacy of courage, independence and leadership," said Representative Mindy Domb (D-Amherst), Co-Chair of the Special Commission on the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution and House Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development. “This campaign has an opportunity to highlight how Massachusetts continues to embrace revolution, change and our commitment to create a more equitable and just commonwealth and country. I’m looking forward to the cross-commonwealth celebration and eager to learn the untold stories of those whose struggles and resilience continue to shape and strengthen our commonwealth and nation." 

Massachusetts 250 Grant Awardees: 

• 1Berkshire, Pittsfield  
• Boston 4 Foundation, Boston  
• Carlisle Historical Society< Carlisle 
• Charlestown Historical Society, Boston 
• City of Cambridge, Cambridge 
• City of Chelsea, Chelsea 
• City of Fall River, Fall River 
• City of Salem, Salem 
• Congregational Library & Archives, Boston  
• Essex National Heritage, Inc., Salem 
• Explore New Bedford, New Bedford 
• Framingham History Center, Framingham 
• Freedom Trail Foundation, Boston  
• Freedom’s Way Heritage Association, Devens 
• Friends of Doherty Park, Boston 
• Hingham Historical Society, Hingham  
• Historic New England, Haverhill 
• Lexington Historical Society, Lexington  
• Massachusetts Historical Society, Boston 
• Museum of African American History, Boston and Nantucket 
• Museum of Old Newbury, Newburyport  
• North of Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau, Salisbury  
• Plimoth Patuxet Museums, Plymouth 
• Porter-Phelps-Huntington Museum, Hadley 
• Somerville Museum, Somerville  
• Springfield Preservation Trust, Springfield 
• The Concord Museum, Concord  
• The Innovation Trail of Greater Boston, Boston  
• The Museum of Printing, Haverhill  
• Town of Arlington, Arlington   
• Town of Concord, Concord  
• Town of Visitors Center, Lexington  
• Town of Weymouth, Weymouth  
• USS Constitution Museum, Boston  
• Visit North Central Massachusetts, Fitchburg  
• WBUR, Boston  
• White Snake Projects, Brookline  

Visit massachusetts250.org for more information and follow the campaign on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. 

華美協會新英格蘭分會年度晚宴頒3400元獎學金給青少年

華美協會 (OCA) 新英格蘭分會會長陳海恩(前右五)和青少年合影。  (OCA提供)

             (Boston Orange 編譯) 華美協會 (OCA) 新英格蘭分會在華人醫務中心 (SCCHC)和昆市亞協服務中心 (QARI)的大力贊助下，日前在昆士市龍鳳酒樓舉辦年度晚宴，發出3400元獎學金，表揚青年工作協調員May Mok獲提名為全國大會「無名英雄」獎人選。

            約65名青少年及其家人參加了這場晚宴。

OCA 新英格蘭分會贏得全美OCA新興分會第一名。

            華美協會是一個1973年在華府 (D.C.)創立的501 (c) (3) 非牟利組織，在全美有50個分會。新英格蘭分會於1981年由查幼梅 (George Cha) 等人創辦，其後一度沉寂，2021年時，鑒於美國境內反亞裔仇恨暴力事件頻傳，犯罪案經人增長，在陳海恩(Denise Chan)發起下，重新啟動。

            抱著促進年輕人團結，賦能，培養領導力的宗旨，華美協會新英格蘭分會在陳海恩的統籌、策畫中，為青少年們設計、安排了很多培養領導技能，學習基本生活知識，認識金融財務，研討文化意識，實際參與社區的活動，協助青少年們成為領袖人物，對社區發揮積極影響。

            陳海恩表示，在華人醫務中心和昆市亞協服務中心贊助下，該會今年得以發放3400美元獎學金，鼓勵青年學子藉由努力向學，勤奮工作，服務社區來實踐個人的理想、目標，發揮對世界的影響力。

            今年，OCA新英格蘭分會還傳喜訊，青年協調員May Mok因在青年賦權工作上有傑出貢獻，獲OCA全國大會提名參選「無名英雄獎」。當晚出席的青少年們獲悉此事時，全場歡騰，興奮之情溢於言表。

            陳海恩指出，該會很感恩，繼2023年在OCA全國大會50週年中贏得新興分會第一名之後，2024年再次贏得第一名，將來必再接再厲，持續培訓青少年。

            OCA新英格蘭分會的年度晚宴由May Kwan率團隊分工合作，青年委員會Sharon Man擔任舞台經理，Eva Yu率團隊以精美飾品佈置場地，Anthony Dear 負責管理聲音和音樂，還有Nicole Chen、Keenan Lee、Chloe Christen 和 Sam Huang等人出任主持人。這些青少年攜手合作，為OCA新英格蘭分會成功舉辦2024年度獎學金晚宴。

            查詢OCA新英格蘭分會詳情，可上網www.ocaapaane.org。