A November 15th article by WBUR captures the collaborative efforts of Indigenous tribes in Massachusetts, specifically the Nipmuc and Massachusetts's tribes, in reviving the ancient art of crafting traditional dugout canoes called mishoons. Led by Andre Strong Bear Heart and Thomas Green, the tribes gathered to build these canoes using fire as a primary tool. The project aimed to rekindle cultural practices, strengthen tribal bonds, and educate the public about Indigenous history and identity.

The process of crafting the mishoon was described as a deeply spiritual and communal experience, with individuals from various tribes coming together to work on the canoe from dawn till dusk. The burning of the canoe symbolized a revival of ancestral knowledge and a way to pass it on to younger generations.



The significance of reclaiming ceremonial spaces and cultural practices was highlighted, especially in the face of historical erasure and ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities. The article sheds light on the historical context of oppression, including laws restricting Native American movement within city limits and the desecration of sacred burial grounds.

The completion of the mishoon marked a symbolic gesture of unity and cultural resurgence, representing a shared heritage and a step towards strengthening ties between the tribes. The canoe, adorned with a turtle carving symbolizing shared land, was paddled along the Mystic River, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding and weaving together communities, languages, ceremonies, and traditions.