Sadly, the increasing presence of expensive stores benefits neither. As historic locations are replaced by bourgeois chains, Harvard Square loses the unique charm that sets it apart and in part attracts tourists.
Moving forward, the administration must recognize that concerns of affordability in the Square are relevant to the student population. Initiatives from the College like the new start-up grant for freshmen—a stipend to those whose families $65,000 or less—are a helpful start.
More is needed, however, starting with an expansion of the program. Right now, it is a pilot that is only guaranteed to freshmen until the Class of 2022. It also applies solely to freshmen, yet the struggles of low-income students do not disappear when they move out of the Yard. Finally, we would encourage the administration to reconsider the monetary threshold to include more students, a critical step in supporting students who fall just above the $65,000 line.
We believe the solution cannot rely solely on the administration, however. Though they have steps to take, part of the responsibility falls on the student body. Undergraduates must be cognizant of their peers’ financial situation when making lunch plans or setting up meetings for an organization. Students could opt to eat in a dining hall, for example, rather than a coffee shop with $5 espressos. By practicing empathy and sensibility, individuals can take action to help curb the class-based divisions that an increasingly expensive Harvard Square may bring.
The transformation of Harvard Square in recent years is clear, and it is highly likely that this trend towards expensive eateries will continue. This change impacts the everyday lives of low-income students at Harvard, and we believe it is necessary for the administration to help support these students. As Harvard Square becomes defined by trendier and more upscale stores and restaurants, it is important that all Harvard students still feel comfortable on their campus. We can all do our part to keep up with the cycle of changing storefronts that is beginning to characterize the once historic Harvard Square.
This staff editorial solely represents the majority view of The Crimson Editorial Board. It is the product of discussions at regular Editorial Board meetings. In order to ensure the impartiality of our journalism, Crimson editors who choose to opine and vote at these meetings are not involved in the reporting of articles on similar topics.