Thanksgiving Day History

From a different perspective 

I know that Thanksgiving is a day of feasting and family gathering. Understanding that, I’m asking you to take a moment to view the history of Thanksgiving through a different lens as you seek to be more inclusive.

What we’ve traditionally been taught is a day of giving thanks is actually a day when Native American families and indigenous children were slaughtered, and the settlers gave thanks. This is a part of our history.

Indigenous community observances

Some indigenous communities observe Thanksgiving as a National Day of Mourning or Unthanksgiving Day to acknowledge native genocide.

Learn the truth of our history and how to participate in the National Day of Mourning by visting uaine.org/.

RESOURCES

United American Indians of New England (UAINE)
“Many Native Americans do not celebrate the arrival of the Pilgrims and other European settlers. Thanksgiving day is a reminder of the genocide of millions of Native people, the theft of Native lands, and the relentless assault on Native culture. Participants in National Day of Mourning honor Native ancestors and the struggles of Native peoples to survive today. It is a day of remembrance and spiritual connection as well as a protest of the racism and oppression which Native Americans continue to experience.”

National Day of Mourning 
52nd Annual National Day of Mourning – November 25, 2021

The National Day of Mourning reminds us all that Thanksgiving is only part of the story. 

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