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Dr Al Chaidar Abdurrahman Puteh Lecturer Anthropology, Universitas Malikussaleh, Lhokseumawe Aceh
Media Teclaid CeStigation.id ||
Salem, Massachusetts, USA & Banda Aceh, Indonesia – As the City of Salem, Massachusetts, grapples with the historical implications of its centuries-old city seal, a powerful and unified voice from across the globe is urging its preservation: the people of Aceh, Indonesia. Far from viewing the seal's depiction of a Sumatran merchant as offensive, many in Aceh see it as a cherished cultural artifact, a testament to their ancestors' global reach, and a unique bridge between two distant cultures.
"The seal is a historical artifact," firmly states Prof. Cut Dewi, PhD, from Banda Aceh. This sentiment is widely echoed, with many like Reza Idria simply declaring, "Leave the seal alone!"
For years, the Salem City Seal Task Force has been engaged in a nuanced discussion about the seal's imagery, particularly the figure of a bare-chested Acehnese individual amidst tropical flora, along with the motto "Divitis Indiae usque ad ultimum sinum" ("To the farthest port of the rich East"). While some in the United States advocate for changes, citing concerns about potential stereotypical representations, the perspective from Aceh offers a profound counter-narrative. Indeed, concerns have been raised by some, including Michael Feener, that "Most of the comments on the headdress has actually seen it as a 'Chinese stereotype'," highlighting the varied and sometimes misinformed interpretations of the seal's details.
"For us, the seal is a source of pride," explains Cut Sarah, a historian from Banda Aceh. "It's a tangible recognition of Aceh's historical importance as a center of global trade, especially the pepper trade, which connected us directly to places like Salem. It's a reminder that our ancestors were not isolated, but active participants in the world economy."
The City Seal, adopted in 1839, vividly illustrates the maritime prowess and economic ambition of 19th-century Salem. The imagery directly references the city's lucrative and often perilous trade with the East Indies, particularly Sumatra (the location of Aceh), which brought immense wealth and influence to the New England port. This historical connection is precisely what resonates with the Acehnese people today. As one individual aptly puts it, "Acehnese salesmen/saleswomen or traders were and still are the world class businessman," reinforcing the deep-seated pride in their mercantile heritage.
Rather than a demeaning caricature, many Acehnese interpret the figure on the seal as a symbol of their forebears' agency and their significant contribution to global commerce. It stands as a visual acknowledgment of Aceh's past as a powerful sultanate, a key player in the intricate networks of trade that spanned oceans.
"When we see that seal, we see our history reflected," says Muhammad Rizki, a local community leader. "It's not just a symbol for Salem; it's a shared heritage. To alter it would be to erase a part of that important story, a story of how our two cultures intersected in a significant way centuries ago."
This sentiment is widely echoed across Acehnese society, from academics to everyday citizens. They highlight that the seal, in its specific depiction of an Acehnese person rather than a generic "Oriental" figure, offers a unique and historically authentic glimpse into the era's cross-cultural exchanges. They believe that understanding the seal in its full historical context, rather than through a solely contemporary lens, is crucial for preserving its integrity and educational value. Concerns have also been voiced, suggesting a potential bias within the task force itself. As one commenter observed, "I think just as Justin said, the task forced is biased so the ones representing are the ones who hold one side of the argument." This underscores the need for a truly balanced and inclusive representation of viewpoints in the decision-making process.
The ongoing dialogue in Salem underscores the complexities of interpreting historical symbols in a modern world. However, the strong and clear voice from Aceh serves as a powerful reminder that history is not static, and its artifacts often carry different, equally valid, meanings for diverse communities. As Salem considers the future of its emblem, the fervent plea from Aceh offers a compelling argument for celebrating, rather than altering, a unique cultural artifact that continues to bridge continents and centuries. ###
(editorial staff)
