At first glance, one might mistake my aunt’s dining room table for a traditional Thanksgiving feast.
Two types of turkey breast lie next to a large platter of mashed potatoes, which is complemented by a savory sweet potato casserole right beside it. A fresh salad lies at the edge, right next to the silverware and a tray of newly baked corn bread. However, upon turning the corner, a ridiculously sized tray of white rice can be found adjacent to the black beans, followed by a platter of congri -- the Cuban equivalent of rice and beans (because why not have them separate and together?). Beside these dishes is more bread, but French bread this time (of course you need more). And finally, the lechon -- the highly esteemed succulent pork that my uncle worked on all day.
Welcome to Sangiving, my family’s rendition of Turkey Day.
I had not really thought deeply about the significance behind my family’s celebration of Thanksgiving until very recently. And it’s pretty humorous when you first think about it. Why would a bunch of crazy, loud-mouthed Cubans be celebrating this American holiday, honoring the generosity of the Native Americans towards the English settlers? Evidently, we know that Thanksgiving is about a lot more than that. We’ve known this even before 1863 when President Lincoln declared this last Thursday in November as a day to give thanks for all our blessings.
And, in a family of political exiles from Cuba, we give all the “thanks” we can -- definitely not just on Thanksgiving.
If it weren’t for America’s generosity, we wouldn’t be here. I wouldn’t be here.
Stripped of their possessions upon Castro’s rise to power, my family came to South Florida in search for a better life. They lined up alongside thousands of other Cuban refugees at the steps of the Freedom Tower in Miami, Florida, where they were promised asylum. And it was then that they started a new life, all thanks to America’s welcoming embrace.
Like the English settlers who came so long ago, my family was granted a safe haven. And for that, we are forever indebted to this country. In light of the recent refugee conflicts, we cannot forget the importance of acceptance, the importance of giving people the opportunity to start over. Because that’s what our country prides itself on.
We are a land of opportunity. Let’s not forget it. And let’s be thankful.
And so this Thanksgiving, my family will sit side by side, as will the turkey and pork on my plate. We’ll hold hands, and we’ll say grace once more.
