# Why is it common for some people not to celebrate Thanksgiving?

Paige Thornton · August 4, 2026

> The origins of Thanksgiving are complex and rooted in colonial history, with many Native American communities viewing the holiday as a celebration of...

The origins of Thanksgiving are complex and rooted in colonial history, with many Native American communities viewing the holiday as a celebration of the genocide and oppression they faced during European colonization.

The United American Indians of New England established a National Day of Mourning on Thanksgiving Day in 1970, to honor the suffering of Indigenous peoples and to educate others about the historical impacts of colonization.

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Research shows that narratives surrounding Thanksgiving often omit significant historical events, such as the Pequot War and King Philip’s War, which highlight the violent conflicts between Native Americans and European settlers.

Many Indigenous individuals do not participate in traditional Thanksgiving celebrations, choosing instead to engage in alternative gatherings that honor their traditions and heritage, focusing on remembrance rather than celebration.

A study by the American Psychological Association indicates that many people, particularly within marginalized communities, experience heightened mental health challenges during holidays tied to oppressive historical contexts.

The mythology surrounding the first Thanksgiving often ignores that the feast in 1621 was likely very different in terms of food and atmosphere than the modern holiday, with various tribes and cultures contributing to a much more diverse harvest celebration.

The practice of “Friendsgiving” has emerged as a way for some people to celebrate the holiday with friends instead of family, creating a space focused on connection rather than tradition or historical context.

Data from the Pew Research Center shows a growing number of Americans, particularly younger generations, who say they do not celebrate Thanksgiving due to its association with colonialism and the treatment of Native Americans.

The Thanksgiving holiday had a turbulent historical journey, officially becoming a national holiday only in 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed it during the Civil War, aiming to unify a nation in turmoil.

The idea of gratitude is central to many Thanksgiving celebrations; however, research in social psychology emphasizes that gratitude can also be expressed independently of specific holidays or cultural contexts.

In recent years, there have been movements to decolonize Thanksgiving, promoting an understanding and acknowledgment of Indigenous histories and perspectives, as well as encouraging acts of solidarity with these communities.

Some individuals choose to engage in "acts of service" on Thanksgiving by volunteering at shelters or food banks, reflecting a desire to contribute positively to society rather than participate in the traditional holiday framework.

The food commonly associated with Thanksgiving, such as turkey and cranberry sauce, often overshadows Indigenous culinary traditions that have deeply influenced American cuisine, raising questions about who gets recognized in culinary history.

Sociological research emphasizes that cultural rituals, including those surrounding Thanksgiving, can serve as a form of identity affirmation for individuals and families, influencing their decision to celebrate or abstain.

Conversations among Indigenous activists and scholars emphasize the importance of understanding the historical trauma associated with Thanksgiving, advocating for education on the impact of colonization and the need for reparative justice.

Many Indigenous groups advocate for a shift in focus during Thanksgiving to emphasize mutual respect and understanding between cultures, suggesting a narrative that highlights shared humanity rather than historical dichotomies.

The portrayal of Thanksgiving in popular culture often perpetuates romanticized versions of history, which can lead to ignorance about the real experiences of those affected by colonialism.

Studies indicate that historical amnesia—an inability or unwillingness to confront uncomfortable truths about history—plays a significant role in why many Americans continue to celebrate Thanksgiving without recognizing its deeper implications.

The act of revising holiday narratives, including Thanksgiving, has been proposed as part of a broader movement towards reconciliation, emphasizing truth-telling and acknowledgment of historical injustices.

Understanding the diversity of sentiments around Thanksgiving requires a reckoning with American history that includes perspectives of marginalized communities, highlighting the ongoing impacts of colonial legacy and societal structures.

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