Historical and Contemporary History of Deer Island

Through intentional partners with Native American members of the Nipmuc, Massachusett, and Mashpee Wampanoag communities, multidisciplinary dance theatre artist Marsha Parrilla will facilitate the creation of Harbor Islands: Past, Present, Future.  The residency will: shed light on the historic accounts of Harbor Islands as expressed through the voices of the people whose ancestors were part of the islands; illuminate their contemporary history (and the ongoing presence of Native peoples on the islands), and serve as a platform to collectively create a fresh vision for Indigenous people from Boston.  This project creates spaces to heal these collective wounds to our land, our minds, and our spirits- and to dream a better future for generations to come.

This event will explore the women and children’s experience during King Phillips War, with a focus on Deer Island.  There will be an all Massachusetts Native female panel – as well as fun, interactive, and educational family activities.