Boston law banning Native Americans puts journalism convention at risk

[Ian David]

1675 Indian ban puts convention bid at risk
Minority journalists may reject Boston if law isn't repealed

By Keith Reed, Globe Staff | May 11, 2005

Boston is a finalist for hosting a big convention for minority journalists, but a 1675 law requiring the arrest of Native Americans who enter Boston could prevent the city from winning the bid.

Officials in City Hall and at the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority met yesterday with the executive director of Unity: Journalists of Color Inc. to discuss repealing the state law, which has remained on the books despite being widely considered unconstitutional.

Its continued presence has sparked ire among some within the journalists' group, which represents Native Americans, African Americans, Hispanics, and Asian Americans working in the news media.

<snip>

Now the convention authority, the city, and at least two state legislators want the law repealed before it can scuttle Boston's chances of hosting Unity's 2008 meeting, which could bring millions in revenue and 8,000 to 10,000 minority journalists. Convention planners also hope to show the visitors that Boston is a diverse and welcoming city.

More:
http://www.boston.com/business/articles/2005/05/11/1675_indian_ban_puts_convention_bid_at_risk/