So, what’s in a street name? And why does it matter?
In the early days of urban development in the United States, streets were typically named after landmarks, topographic features, or location. Major streets were often given names of power (like State or King) or after heroes and leaders. Wherever you travel the names of the local streets tend to say much about the area.
In some cases, the name of a street can tell you a bit about the unique history of the community. The name may relate easily to the history in an obvious way, or it may require some research to uncover its meaning.
City Councilor Sean Curran says, it is time to take a look at a street in the Mason Square neighborhood of Springfield and name it after former State Representative and Civil Rights Activist Benjamin Swan, an individual whose name is synonymous with the street. Curran, along with residents on the Hill is looking to rename the State Street cut-through across from the recently restored Mason fire station. It runs across Hawley Street, Winchester Street, and Eastern Ave.
Curran says this decision is not political, it’s about honoring a man who committed his adult life to enhancing the quality of life in all aspects to the city of Springfield. Curran says, “I have known Ben personally and professionally for over twenty (20) years, he served 22 years in legislation, it’s just time for the city to note that legacy and of public service.”
David Maynard, Chair of the Board of Directors for the Association of Black Business and Professionals stated “I am in full support of the name change. Black professionals in all aspects of life, inclusive of public service, should have their service highlighted and recognized.” Maynard noted, “Swan was also a civil rights activist who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma and worked for social justice in Springfield and the entire state. In honoring his efforts and his contributions, his literal blood, sweat and tears, we are all honored.”
Born in Belzoni, Mississippi in 1933, Benjamin Swan has dedicated his life to serving his community and the cause of social justice. From leadership in the Civil Rights Movement, to his role as an elected representative in the Massachusetts state legislature, he has faithfully served the people of the Springfield area for 50 years.
City Councilor Sean F, Curran said, “Ben Swan served in the United States Army, the Congress of Racial Equality, and the Massachusetts state legislature, Mr. Swan has always fought for issues that improved social and economic conditions for his neighbor, city, and country. After a lifetime of public service, it is a fitting tribute to name this section of State Street, in the heart of the Mason Square neighborhood, Ben Swan Way.”
Maynard stated, “Personally, I used to visit Representative Swan in his office when I was young. We would talk about economic issues. He provided time in his schedule to have that conversation with a young black student. I appreciated his time then, and I appreciate those conversations now.”
Curran began the petition process, when he requested and was granted a Honorary Street Sign Application. Councilor Curran will ask residents for signatures in support of the name change at various Juneteenth events over the weekend. Once the signature goal is met, Curran will present the application and petition to the Old Hill neighborhood council for approval. If the neighborhood council approves the petition, the City Council will vote on the name change and send the order to Mayor Sarno for his signature.
While serving in the House of Representatives, Swan voted to fund the construction of a new Putnam High School; voted for millions of dollars to local Hospitals, was instrumental in securing a 50-million-dollar loan for the City of Springfield, when it was facing near bankruptcy back in 2004.
Maynard pointed out that one of Representative Swan’s biggest issues was criminal justice reform. He successfully fought to shorten the amount of time a person’s criminal record is obtainable by a potential employer. This is impactful legislation. “If a man doesn’t have a job or an income, he has neither life nor liberty nor the possibility for the pursuit of happiness. He merely exists.” Through Representative Swans efforts more people are doing more than just existing.
Bishop Talbert Swan, President of the Springfield MA Chapter of the NAACP says “I am in full support. Rep Swan has worked tirelessly for this community and deserves this honor and even more. Rep Swan has given his life to uplift our community and has served the people honorably.”
In terms of his value to the Black Community, Bishop Swan says “Representative Swan is an iconic figure for social change. He has fought for justice and equality and has kept the Black community foremost on his agenda. His love for our people is unquestionable. To give your life for social change is the utmost sacrifice. It is a demonstration of love, commitment, and faithfulness.”
Respected long time community organizer Mable Lene Sharif added, I believe Ben Swan is extremely important to the Black Community because of all of the changes he helped to bring about for human rights for Black people. Ben made many sacrifices in order to help bring about those historical changes. I believe it is extremely important for especially our Black youths to know how much Ben dedicated his life fighting, and being jailed for Black people to have human rights, civil rights, welfare for all people and equal opportunities, etc. I believe the knowledge of Ben’s contribution to the world just might inspire our youths to step up and take the baton, as some are doing right here in Springfield, MA.
Business owner Donell Wright states “the renaming of this street is an honor to the African-American community as the renaming of streets have often been based on certain desired traits they want people to associate with within our neighborhoods. Ben Swan throughout his illustrious career has displayed the traits that we want our young people to acknowledge and the footsteps we seek for them to follow.
Wright continues, what Ben Swan means to me is community excellence. When I first came home from my incarceration I called his office and he personally told me to come right in. Mr swan sat down with me wrote letters on my behalf, counseled, mentored and pointed me in the right direction. He gave me a firm foundation upon which to stand as he let me know that he truly cared and wanted me to succeed. Through his guidance I have been able to navigate the barriers and pitfalls upon reentering society after incarceration to become a law-abiding and productive member of our community
The City of Springfield has in the past, used the blue honorary street signs to name streets in honor of notable residents and figures. Benjamin Swan whether local, regional, or national according to most who have had the privilege of being in his company, is worthy of this honor and more. What better way than a street named Ben Swan Way?
