January 8, 2007

BMR Students Witness History
Local students attend Mass. Governor’s Inauguration

BLACKSTONE, MA….Two students from Blackstone Millville Regional High School were among the crowd of several hundred well-wishers, supporters and government officials in Boston for the inauguration of Massachusetts’ 71 st governor, Deval L. Patrick (D-MA) last Thursday. Matthew R. Chamberlin, 17 a senior and Ally Graves, 16 a junior attended the historic ceremony as representatives of the district. Enjoying unseasonably mild weather, the day was one of many “firsts” as the ceremony was the first of its kind held outdoors. Patrick is also the first African American governor of the Commonwealth and the first Democrat to occupy the corner office in the State House in 16 years. It was also reported to be the first gubernatorial inauguration in the nation to feature a “Youth Inauguration ” held latter in the day at the historic Schubert Theatre as young adults from throughout the state gathered to hear Patrick first hand.

“It was so awesome to attend the governor’s swearing into office and see history being made” said Chamberlin. “Between the excitement of (governor) Patrick’s supporters and the family and friends of the legislature it really had a happy, updated feeling about everything” echoed Graves.

Striking themes of inclusion, bipartisanship and recognizing the deep historical roots of his adopted state of Massachusetts, the Illinois born new governor noted that it was the state “that invented America.” The symbolism of the day was not lost on either student who were accompanied by BMR faculty member Sharon Cusack. Patrick opted to use the so-called “Mendi Bible” upon which to take the oath of office. The Mendi Bible was a gift from 36 captives on the slave ship Amistad sent to John Quincy Adams after he helped them obtain their freedom. News photographs of the inauguration have pictured first lady Diane Patrick holding the storied Bible for her husband.

The “Youth Inaugural” event struck a responsive chord with both students.

Patrick and Lt. Governor Tim Murray (D-Worcester) stated a commitment to

encouraging young people to be engaged and active citizens. In support of that

commitment, a special youth forum held on Inauguration Day celebrated the importance

of civic engagement and leadership. Students were asked to share their ideas about how

they can have a voice and a role in the future of the Commonwealth.

Chamberlin, a self described Patrick partisan noted “…The event stressed the importance of getting young people’s energy focused to giving to community service and government” he stated. “There was a real glow in his (Patrick’s) eyes – a real sincerity, a potential for change. He impressed me as being genuine and passionate” Chamberlin said.

More measured in her support, Graves balanced her “…appreciation for the excitement of the moment with the reality of how to get his goals accomplished” she noted. “He (Patrick) has to earn our support. To win a campaign is one thing, now his words have to be measured against his actions in office. People aren’t stupid. Voters are increasingly sophisticated and certainly don’t believe just because they are told to” Graves noted.

Chamberlin is the son of David and Sheryl Chamberlin and a resident of Blackstone. After graduation he plans to attend Suffolk University in Boston where he will major in American policy and politics and then pursue a public service career. Graves is the daughter of Jonathan and Tracey Graves and is also a Blackstone resident. Looking ahead to post secondary education, she hopes to attend the University of Massachusetts in Amherst and ultimately practice law.

Blackstone Millville Regional School Regional High School was established in 1970. It consists of students from the towns of Blackstone and Millville, is located at 175 Lincoln Street in Blackstone, Massachusetts and is accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges.

BMR Senior Matthew Chamberlin and Sharon Cusack of BMRHS Staff