longform Archives

THE LIFE AND DEATH OF HAKIM JAMAL

Hakim Jamal was a Boston original—an engaging author and activist who identified as a recovering alcoholic and addict. He founded the group that created Kwanzaa. His controversial romances with movie stars and models inspired movies decades later.

GEORGE HASSETT February 19, 2020

FEATURE FOLLOW-UP: COP BLOCK

While there have indeed been formal requests made for public information and several articles written about CPD misconduct, it is news to us that we are on the “attack.”

MAYA SHAFFER January 15, 2020

STILL SPINNING

Hub vinyl icon Skippy White and the tunes Boston has hummed since the ’60s

NOAH SCHAFFER December 26, 2019

THE QUIET ONE

40 years ago this month, Fred Clay was arrested for a crime he didn’t commit. After 38 years behind bars, he’s telling his story and writing another chapter.

SARA SELEVITCH November 26, 2019

FAMILY TREE

How do you counter a violent racist bent on destroying intercommunal solidarity? With more intercommunal solidarity.

CLAIRE SADAR November 25, 2019

THE WESTERN MASS POLICE DEPARTMENT THAT HAS HOSTED TWO-DOZEN EVENTS AT CHICK-FIL-A

“They are a great company. They do great work here. End of discussion.”

MAYA SHAFFER November 4, 2019

RETHINKING REENTRY

In a state that sets up former inmates for failure, this program offers hope through education and more

DIEGO MARCANO October 30, 2019

REAL TROOPERS & BEEPER DAYS

Consultants told Mass State Police how to avoid turmoil. The department ignored the advice and spent the following two decades spiraling toward boundless corruption.

CHRIS FARAONE October 10, 2019

GODSMACKED: BOSTON’S HIP CHRISTIANITY BOOM

While attendance at traditional churches is down, the celebrity-studded Hillsong is providing a boost for Boston Christianity, at least for now

ERIN NOLAN October 2, 2019

THE MOST DANGEROUS SQUARE MILE

The centuries-long relationship with Boston that made Chelsea a frontline community for environmental justice

SUREN MOODLIAR September 18, 2019