How Can We Rethink, Rework, and Revolutionize Thanksgiving Celebrations?

by Lindsey Riddell

As we move into the holiday season, it’s important to be aware of negative and harmful aspects of this time of year, specifically Thanksgiving. The traditional Thanksgiving story ignores the brutal history of colonization, including genocide, land theft, and the destruction of Native cultures. It also perpetuates harmful stereotypes and contributes to the marginalization of Indigenous people. There is also a reinforcement of inequality and power dynamics, specifically the societal pressure to be grateful can be especially harmful for members of disadvantaged groups and may discourage them from challenging injustice.

How Can We Rethink, Rework, and Revolutionize Thanksgiving Celebrations?

• Before enjoying your meal, take a moment of silence. Remember and honor the ancestors and people occupying this land before colonization.
  
• In some households, American history is completely detached from Thanksgiving itself. Now considered “Family Day,” many families focus on reflecting, gratitude, and family bonding instead.
• Prepare and enjoy a meal using ingredients native to your location! Experiment with decolonizing your dinner for the evening.
• Plant and support native biodiversity in your community. Repair the damage of colonization on the Earth.
• Recognize this November 27th as a Day of Mourning in honor of Native ancestors and the struggles within indigenous communities today and historically.
  
  • An annual tradition since 1970, National Day of Mourning (NDOM) is a solemn, spiritual and highly political day. Many indigenous people fast from sundown the day before through the afternoon of that day (and have a social after NDOM so that participants can break their fasts). It is also a day that participants feel strength in action and solidarity.