Thanksgiving, a holiday celebrated annually in the United States and Canada, is often presented as a harmonious gathering between Pilgrims and Native Americans. However, this narrative often glosses over the complex and often brutal history that unfolded, particularly the dispossession, violence, and cultural erasure experienced by Indigenous peoples. Indigenizing Thanksgiving isn’t about canceling the holiday; it’s about reframing it, adding depth, nuance, and understanding to the celebration. It’s about honoring the truth of the past while building a more equitable future.
Acknowledging the True History
The foundation of Indigenizing Thanksgiving lies in confronting the uncomfortable truths about the holiday’s origins. The romanticized version typically taught in schools often omits the devastating impact of colonization on Indigenous communities.
Challenging the Pilgrim-centric Narrative
The traditional story emphasizes the Pilgrims’ struggle and their gratitude for the assistance provided by the Wampanoag people. While the initial interactions may have included shared meals, this narrative often overshadows the subsequent displacement, disease, and warfare that decimated Indigenous populations.
Learning about the real history of the Wampanoag people and their interactions with the colonists is crucial. Understanding their perspective, their struggles, and their resilience is essential for a more balanced understanding.
Understanding the Wampanoag Perspective
The Wampanoag Nation, who were present at the 1621 harvest feast, experienced a drastic decline in population due to diseases brought by Europeans even before the Pilgrims arrived. The alliance between the Wampanoag and the Pilgrims was largely driven by political necessity on both sides, a means of mutual protection against other tribes and European powers.
Over time, the alliance deteriorated as the colonists increasingly encroached on Wampanoag lands and resources. King Philip’s War (1675-1676), a brutal conflict between the colonists and the Wampanoag, resulted in significant losses for the Wampanoag and further eroded their sovereignty.
Beyond the First Thanksgiving: The Ongoing Impact of Colonization
It’s important to remember that the story doesn’t end with the “First Thanksgiving.” The consequences of colonization continue to affect Indigenous communities today, including issues of land rights, poverty, cultural preservation, and health disparities. Recognizing these ongoing challenges is crucial for promoting reconciliation and justice.
Educating Yourself and Others
Education is a cornerstone of Indigenizing Thanksgiving. Actively seeking out and sharing accurate information about Indigenous history and culture can help dismantle harmful stereotypes and promote understanding.
Exploring Indigenous Voices and Resources
There are numerous resources available to learn about Indigenous history and culture, including books, documentaries, websites, and museums. Seek out materials created by Indigenous authors, filmmakers, and educators to ensure that you are hearing directly from Indigenous voices.
Consider reading books like “An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States” by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz or “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee” by Dee Brown to gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous history. Explore websites of Indigenous nations and organizations to learn about their history, culture, and current issues.
Sharing Knowledge with Family and Friends
Use Thanksgiving as an opportunity to share what you have learned with your family and friends. Engage in respectful conversations about the true history of the holiday and the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities.
Be prepared to address misconceptions and challenge harmful stereotypes. Approach these conversations with empathy and a willingness to listen.
Supporting Indigenous Education Initiatives
Support organizations and initiatives that promote Indigenous education and cultural preservation. This could involve donating to Indigenous-led charities, volunteering your time, or advocating for policies that support Indigenous education.
Celebrating Indigenous Cultures
Indigenizing Thanksgiving also involves celebrating the diversity and richness of Indigenous cultures. This can be done in various ways, from incorporating Indigenous foods into your Thanksgiving meal to supporting Indigenous artists and businesses.
Incorporating Indigenous Foods into Your Meal
Instead of focusing solely on the traditional Thanksgiving menu, consider incorporating Indigenous foods that are native to your region. This can be a way to honor the land and the people who have stewarded it for generations.
Research Indigenous recipes and ingredients that are available in your area. Some examples include wild rice, corn, squash, beans, and berries.
Supporting Indigenous Artists and Businesses
Support Indigenous artists and businesses by purchasing their artwork, crafts, and other products. This is a way to support Indigenous economic development and cultural preservation.
Look for Indigenous-owned businesses and artists in your community or online. Be sure to verify the authenticity of the products and ensure that they are made by Indigenous artisans.
Learning About Indigenous Music and Art
Explore Indigenous music, art, and other forms of cultural expression. This can be a way to connect with Indigenous cultures and appreciate their beauty and diversity.
Visit museums and cultural centers that feature Indigenous art and artifacts. Attend Indigenous music concerts and festivals. Read books and articles about Indigenous art and literature.
Reframing the Focus of Thanksgiving
Ultimately, Indigenizing Thanksgiving is about shifting the focus of the holiday from a celebration of the Pilgrims to a time of reflection, gratitude, and solidarity with Indigenous communities.
Expressing Gratitude to Indigenous Peoples
Acknowledge the contributions of Indigenous peoples to the land and the environment. Express gratitude for their stewardship of the land and their resilience in the face of adversity.
Consider making a donation to an Indigenous-led organization or volunteering your time to support their work.
Reflecting on the History of Colonization
Use Thanksgiving as an opportunity to reflect on the history of colonization and its ongoing impact on Indigenous communities. Acknowledge the pain and suffering caused by colonization and commit to working towards a more just and equitable future.
Engage in discussions about the legacy of colonization and how it continues to shape our society.
Promoting Solidarity with Indigenous Communities
Stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities in their struggles for self-determination, land rights, and cultural preservation. Support their efforts to protect their sacred sites and resources.
Advocate for policies that support Indigenous sovereignty and address the systemic inequalities that they face.
Beyond Thanksgiving: Year-Round Commitment
Indigenizing Thanksgiving is not a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process of learning, reflection, and action. It requires a year-round commitment to supporting Indigenous communities and promoting Indigenous rights.
Continuing to Learn and Educate Yourself
Continue to learn about Indigenous history, culture, and current issues throughout the year. Stay informed about the challenges faced by Indigenous communities and advocate for policies that support their well-being.
Attend Indigenous events and workshops. Read books and articles by Indigenous authors. Follow Indigenous organizations and activists on social media.
Supporting Indigenous-Led Initiatives
Support Indigenous-led organizations and initiatives throughout the year. This could involve donating to their work, volunteering your time, or advocating for their causes.
Look for opportunities to support Indigenous businesses and artists.
Advocating for Indigenous Rights
Advocate for Indigenous rights at the local, state, and national levels. Contact your elected officials and urge them to support policies that promote Indigenous sovereignty, land rights, and cultural preservation.
Participate in protests and demonstrations in support of Indigenous rights.
Examples of Actions You Can Take
Here are some practical steps you can take to Indigenize your Thanksgiving celebration:
- Land Acknowledgement: Begin your Thanksgiving gathering with a land acknowledgement, recognizing the Indigenous peoples who traditionally occupied the land where you are. Research the specific tribes who are native to your area and learn about their history and culture.
- Support Indigenous Artists: Purchase Thanksgiving decorations or gifts from Indigenous artists or businesses.
- Incorporate Indigenous Foods: Prepare a dish using Indigenous ingredients or recipes.
- Share Indigenous Stories: Share stories and histories of Indigenous peoples with your family and friends.
- Donate to Indigenous Organizations: Make a donation to an Indigenous-led organization that is working to support Indigenous communities.
Indigenizing Thanksgiving is a process that requires ongoing effort and commitment. By taking these steps, you can help to create a more meaningful and respectful Thanksgiving celebration that honors the true history of the holiday and celebrates the resilience and diversity of Indigenous peoples.
What does “Indigenizing Thanksgiving” mean?
Indigenizing Thanksgiving refers to the process of centering Indigenous perspectives, histories, and cultures within the holiday. It involves moving away from the traditional, often inaccurate, narrative of peaceful cooperation and gratitude between Pilgrims and Native Americans towards a more honest and complex understanding of the interactions, conflicts, and ongoing consequences of colonization. This shift acknowledges the rich diversity of Indigenous nations and their unique relationships to the land.
Instead of simply celebrating a romanticized version of the past, Indigenizing Thanksgiving encourages critical reflection on the historical and contemporary realities faced by Indigenous communities. This includes learning about the true history of the Thanksgiving story, supporting Indigenous-led initiatives, educating oneself about treaties and land rights, and actively working towards reconciliation and justice. It is about honoring Indigenous resilience and celebrating their contributions to society.
Why is it important to Indigenize Thanksgiving?
Indigenizing Thanksgiving is vital because the dominant narrative of the holiday often perpetuates harmful stereotypes and erases the experiences of Indigenous peoples. The traditional story glosses over the violence, displacement, and cultural destruction that resulted from colonization, contributing to a lack of understanding and empathy towards Indigenous communities. By centering Indigenous voices and perspectives, we can challenge these inaccurate portrayals and create a more truthful and inclusive understanding of history.
Furthermore, Indigenizing Thanksgiving is a step towards reconciliation and healing. Acknowledging the historical injustices and ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous peoples is crucial for building respectful relationships and working towards a more equitable future. It provides an opportunity to educate ourselves and others about Indigenous cultures, histories, and contemporary issues, fostering a deeper appreciation and respect for their contributions to society.
How can I respectfully learn about Indigenous history and culture?
Respectfully learning about Indigenous history and culture requires a commitment to seeking out accurate and authentic information from Indigenous sources. Start by researching the specific Indigenous nations whose land you currently occupy. Explore their websites, cultural centers, and educational resources to learn about their history, traditions, and contemporary issues. Avoid relying solely on non-Indigenous perspectives, as these may be biased or incomplete.
Engage with Indigenous voices directly by reading books, articles, and blogs written by Indigenous authors, listening to Indigenous podcasts, and watching documentaries produced by Indigenous filmmakers. Support Indigenous artists, musicians, and creators by purchasing their work and attending their performances. Always be mindful of cultural sensitivity and avoid appropriating or misrepresenting Indigenous cultures. If you are unsure about something, ask respectfully and be open to learning from Indigenous elders and community members.
What are some alternatives to celebrating a traditional Thanksgiving?
Instead of focusing solely on the traditional narrative of Pilgrims and Native Americans, consider using Thanksgiving as an opportunity to reflect on the true history of colonization and its ongoing impacts on Indigenous communities. Organize or participate in a day of service that benefits Indigenous organizations or supports Indigenous-led initiatives. Dedicate time to learning about the history of the land you live on and the Indigenous peoples who originally inhabited it. Use the day as a platform for educating yourself and others about Indigenous issues.
Alternatively, you can reframe the holiday as a day of gratitude and connection with your loved ones while acknowledging the complexities of the past. Focus on expressing gratitude for the blessings in your life and appreciating the diverse cultures that make up your community. Share a meal with friends and family while discussing the importance of Indigenous rights and reconciliation. Consider making a donation to an Indigenous organization or supporting Indigenous-owned businesses as a way to honor their contributions.
How can I talk to my family and friends about Indigenizing Thanksgiving?
Talking to family and friends about Indigenizing Thanksgiving can be challenging, especially if they hold more traditional views. Approach the conversation with empathy and understanding, recognizing that they may not be aware of the full history or the perspectives of Indigenous peoples. Start by sharing your own journey of learning and discovery, explaining why you believe it’s important to acknowledge the true history of the holiday.
Provide factual information about the impact of colonization on Indigenous communities, and share resources that offer Indigenous perspectives on Thanksgiving. Avoid being accusatory or judgmental, and instead focus on creating a space for open and respectful dialogue. Be prepared to answer questions and address concerns, and be patient if others are resistant to changing their views. Remember that the goal is to encourage critical thinking and promote a more inclusive and accurate understanding of Thanksgiving.
Are there specific resources that can help me learn more?
There are numerous resources available to help you learn more about Indigenous history, culture, and the impact of colonization. The National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) offers online exhibits, educational resources, and virtual events. Native Land Digital provides an interactive map that identifies Indigenous territories around the world. The Indian Country Today website publishes news, articles, and opinions from Indigenous perspectives.
Additionally, seek out resources specific to the Indigenous nations whose land you currently occupy. Many tribes have their own websites, museums, and cultural centers that offer valuable information about their history, traditions, and contemporary issues. Local libraries and universities may also have collections of books, articles, and archival materials related to Indigenous studies. Remember to prioritize Indigenous voices and perspectives when selecting your sources.
What if I don’t have any Indigenous connections or knowledge to start with?
It is perfectly acceptable to begin your journey of learning about Indigenous history and culture even if you don’t have any existing connections or knowledge. Everyone starts somewhere, and the most important thing is to be open to learning and willing to challenge your own assumptions. Acknowledge that you have a lot to learn and approach the topic with humility and respect.
Start by educating yourself about the history of colonization and its ongoing impact on Indigenous communities. Read books, articles, and websites written by Indigenous authors and scholars. Attend workshops, lectures, or events that focus on Indigenous topics. Seek out opportunities to connect with Indigenous community members and listen to their stories. Remember that learning is a lifelong process, and it is never too late to begin.