“Jaws” Put Martha’s Vineyard on the Map — And Threatens My Tribe’s Survival (Exclusive)

‘Jaws’ Cult Film Boosts Tourism but Poses Threat to Indigenous Tribe’s Existence

Joseph Lee, an Aquinnah Wampanoag writer from New York City, reminisces on how the iconic movie ‘Jaws’ has impacted Martha’s Vineyard where his tribe resides. His poignant reflections shed light on the challenges faced by the indigenous community due to increased tourism to the island spurred by the film’s popularity.

Lee shares his childhood memories of spending summers on Martha’s Vineyard, where his family’s roots run deep as part of the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe. Despite living off-island for the rest of the year, the summers were cherished, attending tribal summer camps and immersing in Wampanoag culture with cousins.

Martha’s Vineyard, traditionally home to the Aquinnah Wampanoag for over 10,000 years, has gained widespread recognition due to the filming of ‘Jaws’ in 1975 by Steven Spielberg. The movie played a pivotal role in transforming the island into a renowned tourist destination, with special events marking the 50th anniversary this year.

For Lee’s tribe, the legacy of ‘Jaws’ presents a complex narrative. While the film added a sense of fame to the island, the commercial surge in tourism has brought about challenges for the Aquinnah Wampanoag community, impacting their way of life and connection to the land.

The movie’s depiction of an idyllic island besieged by a menacing shark echoes real-life struggles faced by the Wampanoag people due to escalating property values and economic pressures brought on by the tourism industry. Despite being an integral part of Martha’s Vineyard’s history, the tribe often finds itself relegated to the sidelines amidst the island’s glamorous image.

Lee highlights the stark contrast between the fictional portrayal of Martha’s Vineyard in ‘Jaws’ and the harsh realities faced by the indigenous community, grappling with historical injustices and systemic erasure. The Aquinnah Wampanoag’s fight to preserve their culture, language, and land remains a constant battle in the face of societal misconceptions and marginalization.

While ‘Jaws’ has become synonymous with Martha’s Vineyard, Lee urges a shift in perspective towards recognising and uplifting the voices of the Wampanoag people who have long called the island home. Embracing the island’s rich indigenous heritage is crucial to honouring its legacy beyond cinematic depictions of thrill and adventure.

Amidst the allure of celebrity sightings and picturesque landscapes, Lee stresses the importance of acknowledging the Indigenous communities’ enduring presence on Martha’s Vineyard. By amplifying their narratives and struggles, an inclusive and authentic portrayal of the island can emerge, rooted in respect for its diverse heritage.

Lee’s narrative unveils a side of Martha’s Vineyard often overshadowed by its cinematic fame, shedding light on the profound resilience and cultural significance of the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe. In his quest for recognition and understanding, he embodies a poignant call for embracing diversity and preserving indigenous legacies in contemporary narratives.