As Thanksgiving approaches, educators may find themselves grappling with how to approach this holiday in the classroom. While traditionally a time for family gatherings, turkey feasts, and gratitude, many cultures are beginning to reconsider how we celebrate. For Indigenous peoples, Thanksgiving serves as a reminder of the painful history of colonization and its lasting impact on their communities. As awareness grows, it’s important to navigate this holiday thoughtfully and respectfully in the classroom, creating an environment where diverse perspectives are heard and valued.
For many, the complexities of Thanksgiving might not be fully understood. The traditional story of Thanksgiving—the feast shared by Pilgrims and Wampanoag people—is often taught as a moment of peaceful coexistence. However, this narrative oversimplifies the relationship between early settlers and Indigenous peoples, and fails to address the long history of displacement, violence, and cultural erasure faced by Native communities.
In the classroom, we have an opportunity to truly teach our students about perspectives, cultures, and diversity. This can involve reading books and articles by Indigenous authors, discussing historical events that led to the loss of Native land and culture, and highlighting the resilience of Native communities. By sharing these stories, we not only enrich our students' understanding of history, but also foster empathy and respect for cultures that have been marginalized for centuries.
Rather than avoiding the topic altogether, we can shift the focus from a purely celebratory tone to a more inclusive one. Here are some ways to approach Thanksgiving in the classroom respectfully:
Introduce Indigenous Perspectives – Introduce students to the voices of Native American authors, historians, and activists. Books like We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom, and The Thanksgiving Play by Larissa FastHorse offer a way to explore Thanksgiving from a Native perspective, discussing both the history and realities of Indigenous communities.
Teach About Indigenous Cultures - Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be about the Pilgrims and their version of history. Use this time to learn about the many different Indigenous cultures and their traditions. You can share stories, crafts, music, and food that highlight Native American history and contemporary life—emphasizing respect, diversity, and a deep connection to the land.
Engage in a Discussion on Gratitude -While Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for reflection on what we’re thankful for, it can also serve as an opportunity to reflect on how we approach gratitude. Ask students to think about how they can express gratitude in ways that go beyond surface-level thanks, particularly when it comes to acknowledging the history and struggles of those who came before us.
Focus on the Importance of Community and Family - Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones. While it’s important to acknowledge the complexities of the holiday, it’s also a great moment to highlight the significance of family and community. Discuss the importance of supporting one another, building meaningful relationships, and learning from one another. Emphasizing these universal values can help bridge divides and encourage a sense of unity.
While Thanksgiving may not be a celebratory holiday for all, it can serve as a reminder for us to be more thoughtful about the world we share. For educators, it’s an opportunity to foster a classroom environment where diverse cultures, perspectives, and histories are acknowledged and valued.
Let’s encourage our students to reflect not only on what they are thankful for but also on how they can contribute to a more inclusive and just society. This Thanksgiving, let’s take the time to listen, learn, and honor the stories of Indigenous peoples, while working to build a future based on respect, understanding, and healing.
As with any holiday, Thanksgiving in the classroom can be a challenging time, but it’s also a powerful opportunity to teach our students about the importance of empathy and cultural understanding. By approaching this holiday with respect and openness, we can help our students develop a deeper understanding of the past while cultivating a sense of gratitude for the diverse world around us.
Comments