STRIFE OVER SEAL IN CITY OF PEACE (AUTUMN 2025)

Salem’s city seal, seen below, has been in place since 1839. But, as has been said, the times they are a-changing

The seal has been criticised by some residents for its depiction of a Sumatran spice merchant. They claim that the use of a Southeast Asian is exploitative and may promote a distorted view of history. 

It is also claimed that the ship imagery represents colonialism and ignores the violence and suffering associated with the pepper trade, particularly from the perspective of the indigenous peoples involved.

This is in contrast to arguments that the seal symbolises a history of global trade and courageous exploration. Some people, including historians, view the seal as an important part of Salem’s heritage. City Councillor Cindy Jerzylo was reported as saying she was saddened to hear that the seal was a sign of racism. ‘I always viewed the city seal as honoring the Sumatran people for helping put Salem on the map,’ she said. ‘How can we now say that the city no longer wants to honor or recognize that history that continues to enrich our city today?’

In 2024 a task force consisting of five residents and two historians was set up to spend up to 18 months gathering information and preparing a recommendation on whether to change the seal. The vote in October 2025 was five for changing, one for keeping and one abstention.

Above the depiction of the Sumatran merchant on the seal stands a dove bearing an olive branch of peace in its mouth, representing Salem the City of Peace.

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