Katie Hunter
In What Ways Is Washington Similar To Boston? In What Ways Is It Different?
By Katie Hunter
Fall 2014
Boston is very much its own city. It has its own revolutionary history with Paul Revere and the Boston Massacre. Even in recent tragedies, it has come out strong. In the wake of the Boston Marathon Bombing, the city as a whole united to become “Boston Strong.” The city of Boston has strong identity. It is not the only city that has a clear sense of self. Washington, DC has a similar culture and historic center and one that has already made an impact on me. Being raised in the Washington DC area, I definitely see DC in a new light after this semester.
Boston’s identity is anchored as the epicenter for revolutionary activities. The neighborhoods within Boston exude its history and its traditions. In some ways, however, the neighborhoods in Washington, DC also have their own flavor and flare (in addition to its own revolutionary history). Each neighborhood has had its own troubles and quite a bit of tension historically. In the 1960s, the U Street area struggled after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.; the area was torn by riots which destroyed significant sections of the city. Only three buildings survived on that particular street which maintains a strong legacy today. Washington, DC has the largest Ethiopian population outside of Ethiopia, igniting a movement to name that part of town ‘Little Ethiopia.’
Both Boston and DC have two different cultures but both are bound in their respective histories. Like Boston, where there is a tremendous amount of pride and unity given what’s happened in the last couple years, there is also a great deal of pride about being a DC resident. People may think it’s all about politics here and while that may be the case in some circles, its neighborhoods tell a completely different story. People love living in the non-political sections of the city where restaurants, the arts scene and music thrive. I feel the same pride about living in Boston. I love my city. But I’ve also found DC to be a special place (even if I grew up near here). DC has history, monuments (see the recent tribute to Martin Luther King below), art galleries, concert venues and a lot of culture most people don’t know exist. Both Boston and Washington are a symbol of strength to those who live and work within their city limits.
Katie is a Health Science sophomore interning in the office of Congressman Richard Neal (D – MA01).
