THANKSGIVING AND THE NATIVE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE
The History of Thanksgiving from the Native American Perspective
Nov 15, 2024 | Native Hope
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There are always two sides to a story. Unfortunately, when it comes to the history of Thanksgiving, generations of Americans have been taught a one-sided history in their homes and schools.
The dominant cultural and historical story has been told from the perspective of the European colonialists who landed near Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts in 1620. In this version of the Thanksgiving story, the holiday commemorates the peaceful, friendly meeting of English settlers and the Wampanoag tribe for three days of feasting and Thanksgiving in 1621.
Every year, news outlets and social media are a-buzz with these idyllic Thanksgiving themes.
There is little coverage of the fact that November is Native American Heritage Month or that the day after Thanksgiving, known to most as Black Friday, is Native American Heritage Day.
The Real History of Thanksgiving
The mainstream version of the Thanksgiving story paints a picture of courageous Christian settlers braving the perils of the New World and, with the help of some friendly Natives, finding a way to make a new life for themselves. In the days around Thanksgiving, many educators focus on this happy story, helping students make American Indian headdresses out of construction paper and holding Thanksgiving reenactments in their classrooms.
Very few teachers realize that construction headdresses and school re-enactments create a generalized stereotype that Native Americans all wear the same regalia. These school activities also encourage young students to think it is okay to wear culture as a costume. This makes it difficult for students to recognize the diversity of Native American tribes and leads students to believe it’s okay to mimic Native American traditional wear without having an understanding of its spiritual significance.
Most children are only taught this brief snapshot in American History, which leaves a frozen memory of peace and generosity. However, in a short time after these Thanksgiving events, circumstances and relationships between the European settlers and the Native American tribes drastically changed. Unfortunately, very few educators have the opportunity to teach students about the massacres of Native tribes like the Pequot which took place in the years that followed. They also do not mention that English settlers robbed Wampanoag graves and stole food from them to survive during their first years on this new continent.
Here’s a look at some reasons why Thanksgiving is a complex holiday that all Americans should approach with greater sensitivity.
Why Thanksgiving Is Also a National Native Day of Mourning
It’s important to know that for many Native Americans, Thanksgiving is a day of mourning and protest since it commemorates the arrival of settlers in North America and the centuries of oppression and genocide that followed.
Organized by the United American Indians of New England in 1970, the fourth Thursday in November (Thanksgiving) is recognized as the National Day of Mourning for Native Americans and their allies.
Many people gather at Cole’s Hill in Plymouth for an organized rally and day of mourning on Thanksgiving. Here’s what they have to say about this choice to mourn:
“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.”
Some Native Americans mourn publicly and openly, while some choose to refrain from participating in this national holiday.
How Do Native Americans Feel About Thanksgiving?
While some Native Americans have chosen to reject the Thanksgiving holiday entirely, many embrace the positive messages of the day and choose to put aside thoughts about its complex history. This is because the idea of giving thanks is central to Native heritage and culture.
In this way, Thanksgiving is simply a chance to appreciate the good things in life, like family, community, and the riches of the land. Long before settlers arrived, Native tribes celebrated the autumn harvest and the gift of Mother Earth’s abundance. Native American spirituality, traditionally and today, emphasizes gratitude for creation, care for the environment, and recognition of the human need for communion with nature and others.
Thanksgiving as a holiday originates from the Native American philosophy of giving without expecting anything in return. In the first celebration of this holiday, the Wampanoag tribe provided not only the food for the feast but also the teachings of agriculture and hunting (corn, beans, wild rice, and turkey are some specific examples of foods introduced by Native Americans).
Now, regardless of the day’s complicated origin, many Native Americans will gather with friends and family and use the day to eat good food (many of the classic Thanksgiving dishes are inspired by indigenous foods) and give thanks.
Steven Peters, a Wampanoag Tribe spokesman, was asked about his views on Thanksgiving and the fact that most people still gather to eat turkey and give thanks. Here’s what he had to say:
“I think it’s great. My ancestors had four harvest festivals throughout the year. Gathering with family, enjoying our company, sharing our blessings, and giving thanks for all that we have is a good thing. I say have more thanksgiving events throughout the year. I also ask that you take a moment in that day to remember what happened to my people and the history as it was recorded and not the narrative that we had been given in the history books.”
What is the Real Meaning of Thanksgiving?
As we gather this Thanksgiving, we wish the hearts of all people, Native and non-Native, are filled with hope and healing. Together, let’s pledge to dismantle the physical, economic, educational, psychological, and spiritual barriers that divide and oppress us.
Thanksgiving and Native American Heritage Day allow us to reflect on our collective history and celebrate the beauty, strength, and resilience of the Native tribes of North America.
- We remember the generosity of the Wampanoag tribe to the European settlers.
- We remember the hundreds of thousands of Native Americans who lost their lives because of the ignorance and greed of colonists and the genocide experienced by whole tribes.
- We remember the vibrant and resilient Native descendants, families, and communities that persist to this day throughout the culture and the country.
- We give thanks to people like Sharice Davids and Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, whose hard work and diligence helped place them in positions where the Native American voice can be heard.
Last but not least, we remember all of the friends and family of Native Hope who have embraced our mission of healing and storytelling. We give thanks to you for your support!
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COMMENTS
Frances Bullshoe
11/21/2018, 10:39:40 AM
Pidamaya for this story. It will be utilized in my classroom.Reply to Frances Bullshoe
Kansas Middletent
12/18/2018, 2:58:42 PM
Dear Frances,
You’re welcome. That is great! We are proud to know this is a great resource for you and your students.
Thank you for believing in hope.
Kansas and the Native Hope Team
Journei Brooks
11/29/2020, 6:20:18 PM
Thank you for sharing your history this tells me so much
rayne boldroff
11/21/2023, 9:33:36 PM
hi I just found out I was 10% muwuk native american because my dad has it in him and I believe is that I should not celebrate Thanksgiving because I feel like it is so uncalled for to celebrate it.
Gabriel Franger
11/20/2024, 10:38:55 AM
can someone please tell me who the author is, because I need it for a school project
Gabriel Franger
11/20/2024, 10:40:51 AM
who is the author of the story I need it for a school project
nigg er
11/19/2025, 2:43:33 PM
what is this this diddy blud doin on aacalculator
gabe horn
11/21/2025, 2:27:24 PM
r u gay
Laura Flores
11/21/2018, 10:41:08 AM
History is hidden, the real truth has been kept out of textbooks. The white man is usually appears as a “hero” teaching. Thanksgiving is a time of sadness for me, it was the beginning of the end of the peaceful life of very proud people.Reply to Laura Flores
Kansas Middletent
12/18/2018, 3:01:39 PM
Dear Laura,
We agree. The truth isn’t told in its fullness and is often told inaccurately as well. We tell this story, not to upset, anger, or sadden people, but rather to educate and inform others of the truth behind our history. We need it told truthfully and from our narrative so healing can begin.
Thank you,
Kansas and the Native Hope Team
Daniel Vargo
11/25/2020, 6:11:31 PM
Hitlers rise was due to wallstreet& ibm ?? Suspicious??
Norman Dufault
11/24/2021, 3:53:08 PM
This is Misconstruction of truth.
I have friends , descendant of pachog and Mohawk tribes.
These Trina were Not peaceful and were at war.
The new comers would not have made it through the 1st winter without the native tribes teaching them how to live in the new world.
The native tribes were invited to the 1st thanksgiving as a thank you.
The Indians were decimated by the flu and disease brought accidental by settlers.
The natives also used the new settlers to help destroy their enemies.
If you want to tell the story tell it right.
Otherwise you are no better than those who tell lies on the other side.
I. Hawk
11/4/2022, 2:47:04 PM
I agree totally! I’m 10, and I’m learning about this now and it’s really sad. I’m also Native American and learning that I’ve been lied to for many years and that’s not ok. The emotions I’m feeling are anger, hate (toward the Christians), and sorrow for all the good souls lost in those three days.
Courtney Thiry
11/15/2022, 2:20:35 PM
We hope to bring healing, no hate. Healing to learn about our past so it does not repeat itself.
Ron Cottonwood
11/21/2018, 10:43:59 AM
Of all the tribes of living creatures, only two leggeds can forget who they are and how to find strength in unity and live in harmony with all Creation. Beaver people, Buffalo, Elk, Fish, Plants , Birds and even all Insects and Reptiles remember how to care for their children, continuing to act in ways that contributes to balance and vitality for all Creation. Our relatives have lived this way for millions of generations. Most humans have forgotten these things, have become confused and weakened in the process of colonisation by the pirates and oligarchs who have controlled us for thousands of years. However, there remains some people who have not forgotten. These few have maintained the connection with previous generations and by walking with humility have kept the ability to provide all of us with clues to help ourselves to grow and make healthy choices. We must gain the strength to live our lives respecting places like Badger Two Medicine and let go of our dependence on oil, gas or any “resource ” that by our extraction process compromises the world around us. Some folks are thankful every day.Reply to Ron Cottonwood
Norman Dufault
11/24/2021, 4:00:47 PM
Well said. To change the history is to promote hate.
Let’s remember the first thanksgiving as a gathering of friends.
This way we promote unity.
Camille riley
8/14/2023, 3:23:44 AM
I may not be native American Indian but I 100% sympathize with all natives…I was angry and still not happy with how the white man has desecrated America…and what they have done to all the natives that lived here long before they arrived and took claim of what was not theirs to claim in the first place…then I started doing some research and found information on what possibly happened to the natives that reside here on Thanksgiving and I was downright appalled and outraged that our president (Lincoln) at the time encouraged it and made it a national holiday…now I don’t know if the entire article’s details were accurate but I definitely don’t doubt any of it because man has a habit of violence, cruelty, ownership, deceit and treachery…as I was doing more research just now I read how they make natives pay taxes which is absolutely wrong…why should they have to pay taxes when forced to live on limited landscapes (reservations)…I absolutely adore their culture and the fact that they take pride in the environment(earth)…I may NT have the same views as them when it comes to religion, but I truly admire what they stand for…I myself love nature and respect it to the best of my ability…always wished I was born and raised on a farm out west somewhere away from city life and pollution then maybe I wouldn’t be so afraid of bugs and insects lol…funny thing is I feel in love with the movie “Dances With Wolves” just for that same reason… because he loved peacefulness and wanted to understand the natives…then he fell in love with them and their culture…the pilgrims that came only claimed Christianity but they were not true believers of Christ…if they were they would never ever had done the despicable things that they did to the natives…Jesus Christ was and is there loving, caring, devoted and not spiteful, vindictive, unjust…I muse no longer celebrate Thanksgiving because of what i found out bout the white man…but now i know that it was actually a native tradition first and foremost…so i will take that into consideration this year and years to come and celebrate it for them
It is for the same reason I don’t celebrate the 4th of July anymore… because African Americans weren’t liberated that day…only Europeans won their freedom from England that day…we won our freedom much later…and for that reason I now celebrate Juneteenth…I will keep hoping and praying for those of us that have to fight for true freedom, true respect but knowing they could never take our dignity unless we let them is something we can celebrate for now and the fact that God created us all equal in His image and this life is just temporary…God has something much better planned for us in heaven, those that did us wrong and didn’t or don’t repent will spend eternity in hell’s domain!
Vicki Karlson
11/21/2018, 1:25:08 PM
I am so glad to be part of your Circle Of Hope! This young man has a great idea and it could work for a number of people. Community is the key. Being there for each other and working together. I love the Reservations and the people living there. They have made me feel wanted and like I have a second home. I will be as involved as I can. Just tell me what I can do.Reply to Vicki Karlson
Kandace Lucas
11/21/2018, 5:43:10 PM
I hope to be moving to the Olympia area soon. I don’t have much in the way of money but would like to know how I can help.Reply to Kandace Lucas
Carla Moon Parr
11/22/2018, 3:19:41 AM
I would also like to help. I have an ancestor that was full blood Miami Indian but my white side has taken over and I was not taught my ancestors ways.Reply to Carla Moon Parr
Estelle
11/22/2018, 10:31:43 AM
Glad to have found this site, because of the post above. My sentiments have always gone out to the indigenous in this so-called country, but I have always been concerned about the adoption of the moniker “indian” by same peoples. I refuse to refer to them as indian, because this is not India. Thanks for allowing me to comment.Reply to Estelle
Brittany Hayes
2/16/2023, 6:56:30 AM
So-called country is a country. I hope your don’t live here while saying that!
Pamela Dunson
11/22/2018, 5:55:01 PM
I wish all of the indigenous peoples of this land many things to be thankful for. I knew the real story because I educated myself. I told my children and my grandchildren the truth about this day. I hope when I am gone my family continue to pass on the real story of Thanksgiving and the awful things that happened afterwards.Reply to Pamela Dunson
Rodger Parsons
12/15/2018, 12:02:01 PM
The Thanksgiving story is typical of the false narrative. It presents a myth as reality and is employed to confuse fact with fiction. In Vine Deloria’s “The World We Used to Live In: Remembering the Powers of the Medicine Men” one can see that there were powers that lived and breathed in the people. From the long time of oppression to the possibilities of today, I send a voice to all my Native brothers and sisters – it’s a new new day and it’s a good day.Reply to Rodger Parsons
Ronald Beckman
1/4/2019, 9:56:52 PM
I graduated from Central Michigan University Aug ’92.I was saddened to discover that the university’s property was granted from Natives lands, and to that date only 4 or 5 Natives had graduated there. There were reservation lands out side of town, and I rented property there. I began meeting folks on the rez and found them to have character uncommon in my more European neighborhoods. I found some great friends who showed me real native family structure. I met some of the tribal leaders and was accepted into there community as respected and welcomed. My experiences within Native America were positive and revealing. I felt connected more deeply than to my own traditions and religion. I witnessed the spiritual condition of natives blessed to live well, and the conditions of those who struggle desperately against all forms of dis-ease brought here from Europe and elseware. The karmic condition of Modern America can not be escaped, and the demographics shows that many minorities of the Americas have returned silently and occupy political positions of power and through the vote have made their will known to those who have infected this Sacred Planet that the new day has arrived.Blessed be America again!Reply to Ronald Beckman
Trisha Burke
2/18/2019, 2:44:30 PM
Again, Ron, you have much wisdom to share. Thank you for sharing your background and connection to the Native people of this nation. Let us hope for a new day.
Sarah Nicholson
11/18/2019, 11:30:32 AM
I would love to teach my children the truth about Thanksgiving, and I want my children to have a better, more accurate understanding of Native Americans. I have so much to learn myself. Is there a children’s book you can recommend that can be used to tell the real story in a kid-friendly manner? Thank you so much for this wonderful post!Reply to Sarah Nicholson
Kaylie
11/26/2019, 9:45:04 AM
I think there a book that might be a kid friendly way to teach your kids. But I’m not sure, I think you should just tell them how it went. Because one day their going to learn and its just our history.
Alejandra Acosta
11/17/2021, 8:36:40 PM
Indigenous children do not have the privilege of an easy escape from learning about their generational trauma.
David Gordon
11/27/2019, 12:14:20 PM
I taught biology at DQ University many years ago and assisted David Risling in his efforts to improve Indian education. One of my students at Pittsburg State College is a Lakota very actively incorporating Indian values in his attempt to improve water quality in Florida
https://www.facebook.com/garrett.stuart.58
PBS had a series on American history from the perspective of American Indians that was produced, directed and acted by American Indians. It was excellent. Unfortunately I cannot find it on the PBS website. There are some other resources available on PBS.
Search both “Native American” and “American Indian”. Russel Means advocated the use of American Indian because if you are born in the US you are a native American.
Inside a New Effort to Change What Schools Teach About Native American History
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smithsonian-institution/inside-new-effort-change-what-schools-teach-about-native-american-history-180973166/
PBS
The Symbol of a Warrior: Lesson Plan | The Warrior Tradition
https://www.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/the-symbol-of-a-warrior-lesson-plan/the-warrior-tradition/
Here is an interesting assessment of Indian history by Russell Means
1989 – American Indian Activist Russell Means testifies at Senate Hearing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVANRroxuOoReply to David Gordon
Carl Tetrick
11/28/2019, 9:16:45 AM
Native American History needs to be taught in all schools. Native American’s have been very instramental in our environment animals, land, water ways and we could be blessed in they we over our environment. They have taught us about land and growing crops and eating berries and other foods and for medical uses. On the very day we celebrate as Thanksgiving this the blessed holiday of giving thanks and boundful harvest the Native American’s and American Pilgrims joined together to feast and start this wonderful holiday. I love and respect Native American’s and appreciate their contributions to American and all people. God Bless Native American’sReply to Carl Tetrick
Jessica Lohse
11/29/2019, 5:54:01 PM
I really appreciate this article. What are your sources?Reply to Jessica Lohse
Wade Woytal
11/22/2023, 9:42:41 PM
Did we find out what the source is in reference to tribes being slaughtered as the origin of Thanksgiving.
josh edkilus
1/14/2020, 8:32:33 AM
what day did you write this. I doing research paper :)Reply to josh edkilus
Trisha Burke
1/14/2020, 9:30:36 AM
This was written in November of 2018.
nig ger
11/17/2020, 1:23:04 PM
hi
Ethan Springer
11/21/2020, 4:49:30 PM
Hi I need the day it was written
Elizabeth Lifshitz
2/29/2020, 9:50:11 AM
I live in Israel and I was explaining to my husband why I don’t celebrate The American holiday “thanksgiving “. I found your page on the net and I was very touched, sad and humiliated to be an American citizen. I explained to my husband how the early colonialists murdered millions of Native Americans, stole food from them and literally removed them from their lands and how the American government made empty promises of lands(which came to be known as reservations) and then removed them from those lands,not to mention the cruel and inhuman treatment they were forced to endure. Thank you for your informative blog. With all my love, ElizabethReply to Elizabeth Lifshitz
JoAnn Perez
11/24/2022, 11:06:01 PM
If you live in Israel, I hope you understand the parallels of Indigenous Tribes and European “Manifest Destiny” and Israel’s Colonization of Palestine and incremental ramped up genocide of Palestinian people, ongoing.
“Take the worst thing you can say about Hamas and multiply it by 1000 times, and it still will not meet the Israeli repression and killing and dispossession of Palestinians.”
~Gabor Mate, Holocaust survivor
Amber Prine
6/12/2020, 11:33:24 AM
Thank you for educating me on this! I too, will be sharing this in my classroom to bring awareness and understanding to students. I plan to also share this with my colleagues to help them learn and teach as well!Reply to Amber Prine
Melissa
11/4/2020, 3:13:40 PM
I’m grateful to have come across this message of truth and enlightenment. My son is in Kindergarten and was just assigned a video of “The First Thanksgiving.” I’m so tired of the inaccurate narrative where a Englishman and unnamed Native are smiling happily over pie and turkey. I would love to provide my sons school with resources on how to teach young children about “Thanksgiving” in a way that honors the Wampanoag and all American Indians. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you.Reply to Melissa
Queen cc
11/10/2020, 11:27:35 PM
Thank you for this. It is exactly what i was looking for. I want to teach my son the true history behind the day and to honor our practical Native American ancestry.Reply to Queen cc
Alejandro
11/20/2020, 11:23:31 AM
it is very interestingReply to Alejandro
Ethan Springer
11/21/2020, 4:51:41 PM
Hey I need The day month and year this was written please I am writing an essay on it.Reply to Ethan Springer
Wanda O’Connor
11/22/2020, 11:23:17 AM
I am a Native American Indian. My mother is 100% Native American Indian and raised 6 children on her own the Indian Way. She was born and raised on an Indian Reservation and had a difficult life as all her children did too! Growing up we were called Dirty, Dumb Indian’s but in reality we were very clean. We may have been poor and lived off mother earth but we had the Love and Care from my Indian family. We welcome all with open arms and shared a people with whom ever came into our home if we had food on the table. Usually Salmon and Rice and Potatoes or Beans, Rice and Indian Fry Bread. God Bless all the People in on this Universe.Reply to Wanda O’Connor
Jardin Kazaar
10/16/2022, 7:28:59 PM
Thank you Wanda and all the other contributors to this discussion. I am a senior African American and have lived through Jim Crow and institutional segregation. During the United States era of slavery, my ancestors did the best they could to survive, which included running away and finding sanctuary among some Native American tribes. This is a good example of the nature of Indigenous people. They want humanity to survive and share the wealth of this earth. For the Pilgrims, slaves, explorers and homeless who sought refuge and safety, they owe thanks to Indigenous people of this earth. Lewis and Clark owe the safety and success of the Oregon trail expedition to York, a slave who communicated with the Indian tribes and was granted safe passage. The atrocities that occurred during the growth of this country are the the deeds of individuals, not races, albeit many individuals within a specific race. But if the desire to create a culture of peace and thankfulness for each other is stronger than what we have seen so far, we must nurture the minds and hearts of our brothers, sisters and children of this world with love, grace, honesty and education.
Mohammad Shah Masud Masud
11/23/2020, 10:33:44 AM
I know the government of America take care of the tribalpersonReply to Mohammad Shah Masud Masud
Zion Stone-Traylor
11/23/2020, 11:38:35 AM
Thanks for my answer!Reply to Zion Stone-Traylor
Theresa Liverman
11/24/2020, 8:01:28 AM
It is about time the truth is being publicized because the way Thanksgiving is being taught in school, is way off the mark. Like slavery, the truth needs to be told. I celebrate “Thanksgiving” every day of my life. The day that is labeled, “Thanksgiving” reminds me of how my native people, back then and even now, were robbed, raped and stripped of their families, land and dignity. Who wants to be reminded of that?! Coming from Native/African American heritages, I really appreciate the realness of this article.Reply to Theresa Liverman
Delaney Lenny
11/24/2020, 12:08:38 PM
6Reply to Delaney Lenny
Sebby Sola
11/24/2025, 8:35:44 AM
7
Zorisa K
11/24/2020, 12:30:39 PM
Thank you for this information. I recently saw video, on app, where young Native American posted story what thanksgiving actually means in his culture. I can only say, as immigrant, thank you for educating me and making awareness.Reply to Zorisa K
Tatyanna Teeuwisse
11/26/2020, 12:22:15 PM
Thank you to the people who put this website together to bring a voice to all the stories here. Our white family has very little contact with Native people and we want to begin making connections, helping, listening, being part of the healing that needs to happen. We will begin by making a Thanksgiving tradition of giving resources to Native people, and making contact with local tribes to see what is needed. We are so thankful for this land and the abundance of beauty, food, and life all around us. We are so sorry for all the pain white people caused the Native people of this land. Today we are donating $35 to Native Hope and my husband’s employer is matching it! Yay!! With Love.Reply to Tatyanna Teeuwisse
Kathy Zingsheim
12/12/2021, 7:08:31 PM
Injections and respect and education. And us non natives must do the work. Thank you for this site
Colton LeClaire
11/26/2020, 2:06:05 PM
I am in my mid-twenties and of European descent.
For years now I have felt a sense of mourning on this day while others around me celebrate.
There is reason to celebrate, this day, and all the days we live.
However, the misinformation and misguided focus of what I believe is the majority of Americans is a thing of shame for me.
In recognizing this, today I am especially grateful to find this page, and that others are finding it. I’m glad to see both descendants of Europeans and the native peoples to this land engaging in this forum.
Blessed are those with the humility and courage to acknowledge the truths of our history.
I thank you- everyone who read this article and is generous with an open heart and an open mind.
I will be spending part of my day as I have spent some of this month already, learning or attempting to gain understanding about those who were here before me, and those who live today in an altered state due to the relatively recent history on this land mass.
Peace love and purpose to all beings with whom we share this planet, this space, this time- this universe.Reply to Colton LeClaire
Rachel Williams
11/27/2020, 4:10:45 PM
I’ve loved reading this article. I’m British, and grew up in France before returning to England to study then work. I’m personally touched by cultures welcoming newcomers, and saddened about the violence that ensued when the first settlers arrived in America. I’m inspired and moved by the cultural heritage of native American Indians, with so many beautiful thoughts, ethics, stories, traditions and art. I wish everyone in the World was able to feel compassion towards others and the natural world 💕 thank you for sharing and best wishes to all.Reply to Rachel Williams
Carol Corey
11/30/2020, 9:36:25 AM
My great grandmother was a Leni Lenape Native American then they changed there name to the Delaware Tribe. I truly remember her. She was such a thin woman.. and had long dark hair. I do remember her ill lying in bed. HerReply to Carol Corey
Hong Fei Bai
11/30/2020, 12:56:51 PM
Thank you for sharing. I’m Chinese-American, and it’s sad how Thanksgiving has become so commercialized. I wish the United States did more for the Native Americans they stole from. It doesn’t have to be a government thing. Some politicians can make donations for children’s education or something. Anything to make up for the mistakes of their ancestors and forefathers.Reply to Hong Fei Bai
Naaki Nsiah
12/10/2020, 2:31:33 PM
Hi!
My Name is Naaki. My father is from Ghana and my mother is a Slovenian Austrian.
I´am very interested in the culture, history and tribes of Native American. I don´t know very much about Native Americans. But I would like to know. Can someone maybe please recommend me movies or books that are told from the perspective of Native Americans ? What kind of stereotypes or prejudices do exist ? I am sorry,If I am asking annoying questions, I just want to know, what the truth is. Thank you, in advance. Kind regards NaakiReply to Naaki Nsiah
fdas
4/24/2021, 6:00:26 PM
who wrote this and when was this publishedReply to fdas
Milton Jackson
7/23/2021, 8:41:35 PM
As person of Native American Heritage of the Nipmuc Tribe of Grafton, Mass., it so disheartening to know what happen to my “ANCESTOR”, when the European (English and Dutch) arrived to our shores. Thanksgiving is not a day for Native Americans to be “JOYFUL”. Thanksgiving has been “PERPETRATED” as the big “LIE”, when Millions of Native “MEN, WOMEN, AND CHILDREN” were “EXECUTED” for being owners and care takers of land that the europeans ruthlessly kill for.Reply to Milton Jackson
David Watts
11/12/2021, 11:59:10 PM
So many things I was not taught in Canada or the USA.Reply to David Watts
David Watts
11/13/2021, 12:03:28 AM
Milton I am 60 and have been both Canadian and American. I am utterly ashamed we were not this truth. Only pure BS.Reply to David Watts
Dwayne Johnson
11/17/2021, 3:06:05 PM
Its about drive
its about power
we stay hungry
we devour
put in the work
put in the hours
and take whats oursReply to Dwayne Johnson
Oliver Quinn
11/22/2021, 6:05:38 AM
Thank you for the work you do at Native Hope. I learn so much from you. I wonder if anyone, of Native American descent or not, has any ideas for me: I work in customer service, and I am trying to find a response for when people say “Happy Thanksgiving” at the end of a phone call. Maybe I’m overthinking it, but I’m struggling to find a phrase that is short, warm, and honors the positive spirit of the holiday, while recognizing Native American Heritage Day and the National Day of Mourning. I am loathe to participate in the whitewashing of the history, and it is important to me not to let an opportunity for activism, even if only in a small way (while I am at work) pass me by.
Does anyone have any ideas for how I can return the kindness and warmth people impart when they say Happy Thanksgiving that recognizes Native American Heritage Day and the National Day of Mourning instead?
Thank you again to everyone working to transform society.Reply to Oliver Quinn
Norman Dufault
11/24/2021, 3:57:43 PM
My close friend 1/16 Mohawk and myself just a fraction of Pequot.
Are happy to say happy thanksgiving and really annoyed.
No mad at people saying I want to be PC.
At least when the sports teams were Braves and Indians our heritage was remembered.
Now because you are afraid to hurt someone feelings we will soon be forgotten forever.
Tegan Figueroa
11/22/2021, 4:53:55 PM
I can believe that turkey was a breeded hen from mexico to Europe.Reply to Tegan Figueroa
Yanina Aldao Galvan
11/24/2021, 7:43:45 PM
Greetings! I am from Argentina of mixed native and european descent. Normally this weekend is all about me since it is my birthday. I never celebrated thanksgiving in my home country but I live in the U.S now…the more I live here the more I understand North American history. When I first arrived, I celebrated with the family I was living with and they were Pennsylvania Dutch…I did not know. I have been studying ethnobotany and working and living among Indigenous people since I moved to California and normally I would not celebrate this as thanksgiving but as my birthday and excuse to hang out with friends. I am however invited to a Christian dinner with friends this year and I’m not sure what to do. What is appropriate and what is not appropriate? Would it be ok if I just brought their attention to a minute of silence in respect for Native people?
Thank you for the articleReply to Yanina Aldao Galvan
Cindy Sowell
11/25/2021, 12:48:57 PM
How would I determine what my Native American name would be? I am of Cherokee and Creek Indian descent. I would really love to know.Reply to Cindy Sowell
Mary Ray
11/25/2021, 4:52:17 PM
Please remember that not all white people are from England ….My family cane over from Italy and were treated badly …..Native or indigenous people really are beautiful, spiritual people who take care of our mother earth …Sorry …it happen thus way ..They treated you so badly …I’m glad you survived …maybe you won’t mind teaching us something to save humanity
…Your Italian American friend
…Reply to Mary Ray
Rhonda Piasecki
12/6/2024, 11:27:00 PM
We (immigrants or descendants of) still need to reflect on that which we have built on from our ancestors. We may not have personally interacted with native Americans, but we live on their land, we own their land. This we need to reflect on and think about on a deeper level. And If at all possible, return land to native tribes.
Manuel Basques
11/25/2021, 9:38:01 PM
I am of Diné people Coahuilte. Sadly, This racist angle being published only leads to misinform people is pure divisive revisionist trash. Indian Country and older platforms have long documented official retellings by the Wampanoag. The younger generations are having their minds poisoned by racist activism being raised to have hatred and not know their own history. The tribe had previously captured Squanto during battle. He was a slave whose tribe had been killed off by the Wampanoag. The land they “allowed” the Europeans was not their grounds. It was considered cursed land that still held the remains of Squanto’s people who were killed off by by epidemic of poisoned ground and massacre by the Wampanoag confederacy. He and several of his tribe weresold as laborers. They were purchased and later released by Franciscans. He learned Spanish, converted by the friars, then traveled to England,worked as a laborer, learned English then traveled back from Europe as a laborer and Interpreter. He was not well received by the Wampanoag. A free man that had returned to his homeland to find his people dead. He was allowed to aid the Puritans for a limited time, but was then re-claimed as a slave by the Wampanoag.
If you’re going to retell the story. Stop with the racist revision. Indigenous have told their own stories in the past. Respect the words of our people from that time left behind, and stop pushing racist hate. All youre doing is poisoning the hearts and minds of the young.Reply to Manuel Basques
yazmin yazmin
10/5/2022, 11:17:45 AM
real so true #realReply to yazmin yazmin
Courtney Thiry
10/12/2022, 2:14:39 PM
We hope this brings healing & to not repeat the past.
Nichole Collins
10/29/2022, 5:06:53 PM
I am grateful to reach this website, I have long held the belief that we need to hear more positivity, and less blaming when it comes to history in the Americas. I think if we could all embrace the unique heritage that this country brings we can all come together and give thanks for this beautiful country no matter who we are or where we are from, but we must recognize the past and not whitewash it and honor those who were here before us who have a wonderful heritage that should be a part of who we are as a nation in order to give respect for an honorable way of life that we can and should all agree is much more in keeping with how our creator wants us to give thanks for all the blessings we are given and not just on one day but each and everyday.Reply to Nichole Collins
Courtney Thiry
11/2/2022, 10:26:18 AM
Nichole, thank you so much for sharing! We are so happy we can creat hope & educate those on their past while bringing healing to many!
Nichole Collins
11/9/2022, 5:52:14 AM
Thank you for your reply. I have had a difficult time over the years trying to reconcile what is a conflict in how I feel compassion and genuine respect for Native American people and what they have lived through, the history here causes us to reflect on many things that bring us sorrow, but one thing that we should try to remember is that we should all of us give thanks for the blessings we have and recognize that for some there are still wounds that have not healed and hope that this healing will come for them in a very meaningful way. I have children who are very conflicted in how they feel about this controversial holiday especially because history is taught to children in a very selective way. Even as adults we find it difficult to find out the true history of this country before it was settled and how much of that is unknown to us, we simply are ignorant of all the facts. History is whitewashed and we must recognize that we cannot find healing and reach understanding if we do not even seek to know the truth, if it is purposely hidden from us or we do not even care to know. My children personally want to learn and do want to recognize that there is much we do not know. We are all human with flaws, and for the most part we are all guilty of wanting to see things in ways that do not make us feel ashamed, that is often how things get swept under the rug, but of course there is also power that keeps things hidden as well. I think the world needs to know the truth no matter how uncomfortable it may be, though it is difficult when the truth is very complicated, sometimes revealing the truth is what will bring healing.Reply to Nichole Collins
BOB
11/21/2022, 10:43:16 AM
Je trouve ca intéressant, plus de développement svpReply to BOB
🙂 🙁
11/22/2022, 12:37:26 PM
I really like this articel a lotReply to 🙂 🙁
Courtney Thiry
12/7/2022, 11:52:15 AM
Thank you, we enjoyed sharing this article!
Charles Gould
11/24/2022, 10:32:39 AM
Ya know in some countries if one expressed such bitterness and hate they would be jailed and persecuted. We should be thankful for this day that our country had evolved such that we have free speech throught our lands!Reply to Charles Gould
Courtney Thiry
12/7/2022, 11:53:23 AM
Charles, thank you so much for sharing! Freedom of speech is much a great thing to be thankful for!
Jim Verner
11/24/2022, 12:05:11 PM
While Indians, in North, Central and South America, were treated poorly by European settlers, many tribes fought each other fiercely – murder, torture, slavery and translocation of defeated tribes were practiced. In fact many tribes joined with the Europeans to fight their traditional enemy tribes. Such has been the truth about any group that goes to war against another. To claim Thanksgiving is about bad Europeans and good Indians shows a lack of knowledge and understanding of history.Reply to Jim Verner
Courtney Thiry
12/7/2022, 11:56:48 AM
Jim, thank you for sharing. We most certainly need to remember that this brought cultures together & peace. Thank you, again.
Brittany Hayes
7/31/2023, 10:45:50 PM
Thank you! This is a fact.
Courtney Thiry
8/10/2023, 11:08:33 AM
Aho!
Lety G
11/25/2022, 3:20:31 AM
I would love to join and help in any way I can, also I would immensely love to have American natives friends 😀🧡💝Reply to Lety G
Courtney Thiry
12/7/2022, 11:59:06 AM
Thank you, Lety, for sharing! You can help by sharing & putting Native Hope out there for resources or simply by donating on our website or Facebook page! Thank you again!
Matthew yip
11/25/2022, 5:11:38 PM
I am an immigrant from Hong Kong since 1996, I didn’t know much about the history of indigenous people, need not to say what they have suffered. Great resources. it is a Vivid example of history that is not grounded in facts, rather it’s the winners’ interpretation of them that prevails.Reply to Matthew yip
Courtney Thiry
12/7/2022, 12:01:54 PM
Matthew, I am so glad we can help as a resource to educate history & how we can heal from this. Thank you for sharing your view!
Renee B
11/26/2022, 9:57:33 AM
Thank you for the article and information. It is true that many do not acknowledge that November is Native American Heritage Month nor that the day after Thanksgiving is Native American Heritage Day. Where I live in Rhode Island, schools passed a requirement two years ago to learn African-American history and while I applauded this I also expressed hope that the histories of Asian-Americans, Hispanic-Americans, Native-Americans, and more could be learned as well. I only learned more about different Native American cultures and histories by going to museums, reading books, or coming across towns with the rich history and culture still resent and thriving. To have this learned more is a positive thing for so many across the country and around the world. While I do celebrate Thanksgiving with my family, I also acknowledge that there is a history here rooted in violence and survival. As Holocaust survivor, Eva Mozes Kor, once said, “We cannot change what happened. That is the tragic part. But we can change how we relate to it.”Reply to Renee B
Courtney Thiry
12/7/2022, 12:06:04 PM
Renee, that was so beautifully said. We, too, hope to inspire & educate history to bring healing. The purpose of this is not to repeat history.
Alicia P
11/28/2024, 12:47:07 AM
Dear Renee, I also am a rhode island native. And a small percent algonquin heritage, our history is lost. My mom’s side disclaimer our dna, but my dad has been teaching me the lies everytime we watched a black n “white” western…I was horrified in 2015 when I learned of the corn harvest massacred that took place. I immediately began further educating our children. And in perspective found out that our temple land is a native american land trust. Which has no meaning, nothing is being returned or even shared. Please don’t stop your effort to spread truth to your students. I was more horrified that they pulled the false history n replaced it w nothing. I stand behind all people’s and races that were persecuted, but we focus only on majority groups. Where was everyone else when standing rock happened? N during covid, our government withheld help to our sovereign native nations. Thanku to IRELAND for their help and alliance. Many blessings to ALL my relations. I have no indian name…descendant of doesn’t like horses, daughter of medicine man. May this find everyone well. And our nation find the red road to healing away from the Hopi brokenhearted way prophecy. The words say: we are to AWAKEN! Stand up! Be counted. For you are being recognized in the spirit world. Be part of the natural order of creation, be the change you wish to see in the world. That is the medicine.
Brittany Hayes
2/16/2023, 6:51:40 AM
Ther eis evidence that there was a Thanksgiving between the wampanug and the settlers though. Does not matter if Thanksgiving to you is a day of morning to us its a dad to give thanks to God and for our ancestors survival.Reply to Brittany Hayes
Brittany Hayes
2/16/2023, 6:54:35 AM
Also, I am so tried of people painting all Native Americans as peaceful people when history shows the latest they were nit peaceful. Even before Europeans landed on the mainland the Native Americans with there safficicated culture also did bad by over powering other tribes for territory. Archeological evidence has shown this in some sites.Reply to Brittany Hayes
Delaney Reyes
8/8/2023, 1:24:56 AM
Great read! I didn’t want my daughter in traditional schools so I made the decision to homeschool. I’ going to use this to make my lesson plan. I love this site and how much information is available!Reply to Delaney Reyes
Courtney Thiry
8/10/2023, 11:13:30 AM
Thank you, Delaney! We are glad we can be a good resource for you!
Richard Sanchez
10/7/2023, 12:43:46 AM
Thank you for this. I was asked to teach a Thanksgiving lesson to 5th graders and I simply do not know where to start. I want to celebrate native culture, community, and harvest. I feel pressure to share the truth about the thanksgiving story and history, but feel that my academy will persuade me to not share such a dark history with children. I have felt very conflicted.Reply to Richard Sanchez
Bobby Bailey
11/23/2023, 11:10:42 PM
In my opinion I have a hard time celebrating Thanksgiving knowing that what had happened to the Native American people after all we do not have a holiday for what happened to the Jewish people genocide is not right and I believe that everybody should learn from itReply to Bobby Bailey
Zane Tyler
6/29/2024, 12:53:40 AM
I am in full agreement. Being mostly white, and some Mohegan, I am truly ashamed of the atrocities committed against the indiginous American tribes by the Europeans since the 16th century and feel zero thankfulness for the death and destruction of a once beautiful land now turned to pollution because of greed. Not to mention to numerous treaty violations and murders committed by the U.S. government, especially in the 19th century. What’s worse, is that the history just mentioned is only a small petcentage when we take into account the pain and suffering of each individual in each tribe. That being said, what has happened to Native Americans is worse than the Holocaust of WW-II.Reply to Zane Tyler
Michelle Whitley
11/11/2024, 4:03:27 PM
My heart goes out to my people for all they have been through. Our strength and courage will continue to this very day. Love and peace ❤️Reply to Michelle Whitley
Mihku Paul
11/19/2024, 1:32:16 PM
Great article. Just one issue. That image of the young women is lovely but for one glaring thing. WE DO NOT ALL LOOK LIKE THAT. And that is to a considerable part, due to colonization. Wenuche People, please stop searching for images of “Indians” that most resemble your internalized construct of what an “Indian” should be. Also, while I am at it, remind yourselves that there are PLENTY of Indigenous people in New England still. That’s right, we’re still here. I dare you to include images of mixed blood Indigenous folk. Truly.Reply to Mihku Paul
Alicia/Shawn Pelligrino
11/28/2024, 12:53:54 AM
Yay to you! Mixed breeds everywhere, moccasin tan over everything.
Benita Coffey
11/23/2024, 2:47:51 PM
Learned much here.Reply to Benita Coffey
Francisco Puente
11/28/2024, 10:32:14 AM
As a Mexican descendant of Native Americans, I feel so disgusted of this post. For too many reasons but foremost to try to re write out history and try to judge it with current “moral” standards. And as a
Comment people can use culture as a custom. It is a nice way to share and embrace the joy of another culture. I feel proud when I see another dressed as a Mexican or Indian. Stop trying to spread victimization.Reply to Francisco Puente
Don Williams
1/4/2025, 2:33:05 AM
I share and am grateful for Nativehope.Reply to Don Williams
Don Williams
1/4/2025, 2:34:46 AM
I’m grateful for Nativehope.Reply to Don Williams
Mrs Joy Steven
1/4/2025, 5:04:54 PM
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United Nations RepresentativeReply to Mrs Joy Steven
J Strauß
6/27/2025, 2:04:22 AM
Hello everyone,
we are three students and are just learning about the history of native Americans in our
english class.
After reading the article, we were impressed by how different the meaning of Thanksgiving is depending on the perspective.
The blog highlights that many Americans celebrate it as a day of peace and family, but as we learned today, that is not the whole truth. Many Native Americans think it is a reminder of colonization and the loss of land and lifes. The Europeans came to Massachusetts in 1620 and had a harvest feast with the
Wampanoag tribe. This is considered as the first Thanksgiving. But only few people
mention the events after that. The colonists stole from the natives and even attacked and killed many of them. We didn’t even know that the day after Thanksgiving is the native American Heritage Day!
Another point that stood out to us was the the National Day of Mourning, which takes place on the same day as Thanksgiving. This day honors native ancestors and raises awareness about the injustices in past and today. It surprised us how this is not taught in mainstream education, because this is a good example for the perspective of the natives.
Now we are more aware that Thanksgiving has a deeper and more complicated history than we originally thought.
We think schools and media should do a better job of presenting the true story of Thanksgiving. We believe that learning the full history is an important step towards respect for the native Americans.
Kind regards,
English course from BerlinReply to J Strauß
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11/17/2025, 9:15:45 AM
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Tim Woodruff
11/26/2025, 6:35:17 PM
While my teachers were nuns and priest I some how knew our Christian teachings were wrong in so many ways especially in the eighth grade when a nun told us animals feel no pain ! Then I understood the Christian thinking . And why they had no problem killing native people . Even today people that are not white are animals and they will feel no pain if a white Christian kills an animal . And guess where it continues ? What does a badge have to do with it ?Reply to Tim Woodruff
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