Thanksgiving Beyond the Table: Using Values to Honor Culture, Connection, History, and Indigenous Communities
Thanksgiving is often seen as a time for connection, gratitude, and shared meals. But as we gather with loved ones—or spend time in solitude—this holiday can also serve as an opportunity to reflect on deeper values, including cultural respect, collective honor, and justice.
While Thanksgiving can be a moment for joy and togetherness, it’s equally important to acknowledge its history. The traditional narrative often overlooks the painful and atrocious realities of colonization and its impact on Indigenous peoples. Balancing gratitude with truth may feel challenging, but leaning into your values can help create a meaningful and respectful way to observe the day. This is an opportunity to transform the meaning and tradition around the holiday.
Here’s how you can honor your values this Thanksgiving:
Prioritize Cultural Respect
Take time to educate yourself and others about the true history of Thanksgiving, emphasizing the experiences of Indigenous communities. Share what you’ve learned during family discussions or use your time alone to deepen your understanding. Honoring diverse cultural perspectives can create a more inclusive and respectful celebration.
Embrace Collective Values
Thanksgiving reminds us of the importance of community and collective well-being. Whether you’re spending the day with loved ones or by yourself, focus on how your actions can uplift others. Consider donating to Indigenous-led organizations or supporting local initiatives that align with justice and equity.
Practice Gratitude with Awareness
Gratitude is a core theme of Thanksgiving, but it doesn’t have to ignore historical truths. Reflect on what you’re thankful for in a way that acknowledges both personal blessings and systemic realities. For example, express gratitude for the land you live on while recognizing the original stewards of that land.
Honor Justice and Truth
Justice is a value that calls us to face uncomfortable truths and take meaningful action. This Thanksgiving, create space for conversations about historical injustices and how they continue to impact Indigenous communities today. Centering justice in your celebration adds depth and purpose to the holiday.
Celebrate Connection and Solitude with Intention
Whether you’re surrounded by family, friends or enjoying your own company, let your actions reflect your values. Use this time to strengthen relationships, practice active listening, and share stories that matter. In solitude, you might journal, meditate, or prepare a meal that feels personally significant, grounding yourself in honor and reflection.
By approaching Thanksgiving through the lens of cultural respect, collective care, and justice, you can create a day that’s both joyful and thoughtful. Balancing celebration with acknowledgment of the holiday’s history invites greater authenticity and connection, whether you’re with others or spending the day in quiet reflection.
What values will guide you this Thanksgiving? Let them shape your traditions, inspire your conversations, and deepen your understanding of what this day can mean for everyone.
- Coach Jazzy
