Explore the complexities of Thanksgiving with a thoughtful reflection on gratitude, historical context, and inclusivity. Discover how to celebrate with mindfulness and compassion.

Thanksgiving is often seen as a time to gather with loved ones, share a delicious meal, and express gratitude for the good in our lives. But for many, the holiday carries a mix of emotions—joy and togetherness intertwined with the weight of historical context, personal challenges, and cultural considerations. How do we honor the spirit of Thanksgiving while acknowledging its complexities? I know that, over the past handful of years and thanks to extensive listening to and training around cultural humility, I’ve been more keen about recognizing the nuances of the holiday, offering a space for reflection, getting a deeper understanding of its history, and coming up with ideas for celebrating Thanksgiving with mindfulness and inclusivity.

Colonialism and the Indigenous Perspective

Thanksgiving is often tied to the narrative of cooperation between Native Americans and European settlers, but for many Indigenous people, it represents the beginning of colonization, displacement, and systemic harm [1]. For this reason, some view Thanksgiving as a day of mourning rather than celebration. The traditional story of Thanksgiving often overlooks the complexities of early interactions between settlers and Indigenous communities, leading to discomfort for those who value historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity.

Social Dynamics and Socioeconomic Factors

Thanksgiving often involves family gatherings, which can sometimes bring up tensions, unresolved conflicts, or strained relationships. For individuals without close family ties or those estranged from their families, Thanksgiving can amplify feelings of loneliness or exclusion [2]. The emphasis on togetherness, gratitude, and tradition can create stress, especially for those hosting or preparing meals.

Additionally, preparing a traditional Thanksgiving meal can be expensive, making it difficult for families with limited resources to participate fully. For many who struggle with access to food, the holiday’s focus on abundance can feel alienating [3].

Lastly, the holiday coincides with shorter days and colder weather (especially on the east coast), which can contribute to feelings of depression or low energy (read more about Seasonal Affective Disorder here) and may be particularly challenging for those mourning the loss of loved ones, as holidays can intensify feelings of absence [4].

Dietary Restrictions and Cultural Considerations

Traditional Thanksgiving meals may not accommodate diverse dietary needs, such as those of vegetarians, vegans, or individuals with food allergies [5]. It could be challenging, if not completely impossible, to offer something for everyone who shows up to your house for the holiday. (In cases where there are more dietary accommodations than not, consider offering up a potluck invitation instead of trying to tackle all of the foods on your own.)

Keep in mind that not everyone in the United States shares the cultural or religious background that aligns with celebrating Thanksgiving, leading some to feel disconnected from the holiday. That said, if you do have a diverse group of people who might not have a place to go and celebrate, consider honoring their country or culture’s Thanksgiving or similar harvest festivals as follows [6]:

• Canada: Canada’s Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday of October. It focuses on gratitude for a successful harvest and family togetherness.
• Brazil: Known as “Dia de Ação de Graças,” it was inspired by American traditions and often includes similar dishes like turkey and mashed potatoes.
• Germany: “Erntedankfest” is a harvest festival celebrated in late September or early October, often with church services, parades, and feasts.
• Japan: “Kinrō Kansha no Hi,” or Labor Thanksgiving Day, is celebrated on November 23 to honor workers and give thanks for productivity.
• Liberia: Thanksgiving in Liberia reflects the country’s historical ties to the United States, celebrated with local foods and music.
• The Netherlands: The Dutch observe a Thanksgiving Day in Leiden to honor the Pilgrims who lived there before sailing to America.
• Grenada: The celebration marks gratitude for American assistance after the 1983 military intervention.
• China: The “Chung Chiu” festival, or Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrates the harvest with mooncakes and family reunions.

Consumerism

Thanksgiving is closely linked to Black Friday and the start of the holiday shopping season, which can feel at odds with the theme of gratitude, and may even create a stress of perfection in gift-giving [7]. Not to mention that media and societal expectations often promote an idealized version of Thanksgiving, creating pressure to meet unrealistic standards.

Regardless of how or if you celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope that you are able to reflect during this time on gratitude, loved ones, and connection in a way that feels meaningful and respectful.

References

1. The History of Thanksgiving from the Native American Perspective
2. Thanksgiving Without Family: Coping Strategies for Estranged Adult Kids
3. Hunger & Poverty in America
4. Navigating Grief’s Shadow on Thanksgiving
5. How to host Thanksgiving dinner when everyone has a dietary restriction
6. Thanksgiving: Differences in Celebration Across Cultures
7. Black Friday and Consumerism: Navigating Deals and Dilemmas