Without a powerful emblem like the bonfire or snow sculpture, Green Key is often said to lack meaning, but this weekend is as rich in tradition as Homecoming or Winter Carnival. As we sat in Rauner browsing vintage photos of Green Key celebrations, we were struck by the familiarity in everything Dartmouth never changes. Gone are the days of minstrel shows, but today's Green Key is still the same celebration of friends, spring and the Dartmouth spirit that endures all change.
Dartmouth students are the same as they were over a century ago, when Green Key began. What we realized in our research is that it doesn't matter if there isn't a single symbol that represents the holiday. Through our exploration of this weekend's history, we've gained a greater appreciation of Green Key.
Our deeper knowledge of this holiday has made us feel more connected to Dartmouth. If there's one thing we'd urge you to do this weekend, it's to go out and try to understand something new about this College.
We hope that this issue sheds some light on a holiday that many Dartmouth students believe has no "purpose." Green Key has meaning for all of us whether you find it in the memory of chariot races on the Green or the promise of live music and lawn parties this weekend. Green Key is a holiday that exists to celebrate Dartmouth traditions. This weekend is a chance to appreciate the Dartmouth experience, and that's all that matters.
