Thanksgiving is an excellent example of American tradition. People flood their local grocery stores to claim the nicest turkey and purchase fixings that are commonly paired with Thanksgiving dinner. A grand feast is prepared and families comes together to celebrate how thankful they are. Children come home from school with crafts of headbands with feathers glued to them along with pilgrim hats made out of construction paper. Nothing says Thanksgiving like cultural misunderstanding.
Everyone knows the classic tale of the pilgrims and Indians putting aside their differences and celebrating unity. Has anyone ever considered what Native Americans actually do on Thanksgiving? Starting in the 1970s, the United American Indians of New England (UAINE) started meeting each year at Plymouth Rock on Cole’s Hill and called it the Day of Mourning. They would reflect upon what happened to their ancestors, in hopes that Americans would never forget.
At the feet of the Grand Sachem Massasoit of Wampanoag statue is where this group gathers to both protest and remember the tragic events that happened in 1621. The national holiday we all know and love actually holds a strong meaning for Native Americans. They are reminded every year of the democide that occurred and the continuation of suffering they face. These protests that are held act as a reminder of how the Native Americans have struggled and how their culture is misappropriated.
During these protests, UAINE discusses how schools are not properly teaching children the history of Native Americans. All of the crafts and reenactments done in schools are just ways children inaccurately learn about history. Much harm can be done when children at such a young and impressionable age are taught improperly. There is nothing wrong with teaching children to be thankful, but that shouldn’t come at the cost of reshaping history.
This Thanksgiving, take time to be thankful. There is so much to be thankful for and that aspect of the tradition is a proud one to uphold. However, we should all reflect on the cost that comes with the tradition. Native Americans faced many trials and continue to have their culture abused for the sake of our tradition.