A friend calls it Thanksgrieving...

It is a both/and holiday

Thanksgiving is often celebrated as a day of gratitude and togetherness, but it carries a complex history that invites deeper reflection. While many view the holiday as a time for family gatherings and feasting, its origins are rooted in the colonization of Native American lands and the terrible history of European settlement in North America. The traditional narrative of harmonious cooperation between Pilgrims and Indigenous peoples, symbolized by the "First Thanksgiving," oversimplifies and deeply romanticizes the devastating impact colonization had on Native communities.

For many Indigenous people, Thanksgiving is a reminder of the loss of land, culture, and lives. Some observe the day as a National Day of Mourning, honoring ancestors and raising awareness of ongoing injustices faced by Native communities. The holiday presents an opportunity to engage with history critically and thoughtfully.

At the same time, Thanksgiving’s focus on gratitude and generosity can be meaningful when it includes acknowledgment of this history. Celebrating in a way that honors Indigenous voices—by learning about tribal history, supporting Native organizations, or sharing accurate accounts—can make the holiday more inclusive and thoughtful.

Thanksgiving is a chance not only to gather with loved ones but also to reflect on the past, address its complexities, and strive for greater understanding and equity.

May your day be filled not just with pumpkin pie, but also with meaning.