Posts tagged with "history"

Honoring Our Heroes: The History and Significance of Veterans Day

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Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11th, is a solemn yet celebratory day in the United States. It’s a day to honor and thank the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. But beyond the parades and ceremonies, Veterans Day holds deep historical roots and profound significance for American history, society, and culture.

The Origins of Veterans Day

  • World War I Armistice: The roots of Veterans Day trace back to the end of World War I. On November 11, 1918, at 11:00 AM, an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was signed between the Allied nations and Germany. This moment, known as the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month,” marked the end of the Great War.
  • Armistice Day to Veterans Day: Initially, November 11th was commemorated as Armistice Day, a day to remember the end of World War I. However, after World War II and the Korean War, the holiday was expanded to honor all veterans who served in the U.S. military. In 1954, President Eisenhower officially changed the name to Veterans Day.

The Significance of Veterans Day

  • Honoring Service and Sacrifice: Veterans Day is a time to express gratitude to the men and women who have selflessly served our country. It’s a day to remember their sacrifices, their courage, and their dedication to protecting our freedoms.
  • A Reminder of the Cost of Freedom: The day serves as a poignant reminder that freedom is not free. It has been secured and preserved through the sacrifices of generations of veterans.
  • Promoting Patriotism and Unity: Veterans Day fosters a sense of patriotism and national unity. It’s a time for Americans to come together and recognize the shared values that bind us as a nation.

Why Veterans Day Still Matters Today

  • Honoring Contemporary Veterans: While Veterans Day has historical roots, it’s equally important to honor the service of contemporary veterans who have served in recent conflicts. Their sacrifices are just as significant and deserve our recognition.
  • Supporting Veterans’ Needs: The day also highlights the ongoing needs of veterans, including those struggling with physical and mental health challenges. It’s a call to action to support veterans’ causes and ensure they receive the care and benefits they deserve.
  • Passing on the Legacy: Veterans Day is an opportunity to educate younger generations about the importance of military service and the sacrifices made by veterans. It’s a way to ensure that their legacy is remembered and honored for years to come.

Takeaways and Need to Knows

  • Take Time to Reflect: On Veterans Day, pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans. Consider ways to express your gratitude, whether through attending a ceremony, volunteering with a veterans’ organization, or simply thanking a veteran for their service.
  • Support Veterans’ Causes: Throughout the year, support organizations that provide assistance to veterans and their families. This can include donating to charities, volunteering your time, or advocating for policies that benefit veterans.
  • Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the history of Veterans Day and the experiences of veterans. Share this knowledge with others, especially younger generations, to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

Veterans Day is more than just a day off from work or school. It’s a day to honor, remember, and support those who have served our country. By understanding its history and significance, we can ensure that the legacy of our veterans lives on.

Assata Shakur: A Revolutionary Icon and Her Enduring Legacy

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Assata Shakur, a name synonymous with revolution, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of justice, continues to inspire and ignite conversations about race, oppression, and liberation in America. Her life, marked by activism, persecution, and exile, has left an indelible imprint on American culture, history, and the ongoing struggle for civil rights.

Who is Assata Shakur?

Born Joanne Chesimard, Assata Shakur was a prominent figure in the Black Liberation Movement, a member of the Black Panther Party, and the Black Liberation Army. Her involvement in these movements stemmed from her deep commitment to fighting against racial injustice and systemic oppression.

The Incident and Its Aftermath

In 1973, Shakur was involved in a shootout on the New Jersey Turnpike that resulted in the death of a state trooper. Despite maintaining her innocence and presenting evidence to support her claims, she was convicted and sentenced to life in prison. Her case became a flashpoint in the debate about racial bias in the criminal justice system.

Escape, Exile, and the FBI’s Pursuit

In 1979, Shakur made a daring escape from prison with the help of supporters. She eventually sought and received political asylum in Cuba, where she remains to this day. The FBI has relentlessly pursued her extradition, even placing her on the Most Wanted Terrorist list.

Assata’s Influence on American Culture and History

Shakur’s life and writings have had a profound impact on American culture and history. Her autobiography, “Assata: An Autobiography,” is a powerful testament to her experiences and a searing indictment of racism and injustice in America. Her words have resonated with generations of activists and artists, inspiring them to continue the fight for freedom and equality.

Influence on Women and the Civil Rights Movement

As a woman who dared to challenge the status quo, Shakur has become a symbol of strength and resistance for women, particularly women of color. Her activism and writings have contributed significantly to the ongoing struggle for civil rights in America.

Shaping American Political Culture and Foreign Relations

Shakur’s case has also had a significant impact on American political culture and foreign relations. Her continued presence in Cuba has been a source of tension between the two countries. Moreover, her case has sparked conversations about the role of the FBI and the criminal justice system in suppressing dissent.

The Fight Against Police Brutality

Shakur’s experiences with law enforcement, including her allegations of police brutality, have made her a powerful voice in the fight against police misconduct and brutality. Her story continues to resonate today, as the Black Lives Matter movement and other activists demand an end to police violence.

Assata Shakur’s prison escape and subsequent flight to Cuba

On November 2, 1979, three BLA members facilitated her escape from Clinton Correctional Facility for Women by taking hostages who were later released unharmed. Shakur lived as a fugitive in the US before seeking asylum in Cuba. The FBI has classified her as a domestic terrorist and offered a substantial reward for her capture, but she remains in Cuba to this day.

A Legacy of Resistance

Assata Shakur’s legacy is one of resistance, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice. Her life and work continue to inspire and challenge us to confront the deep-seated inequalities and injustices that persist in American society. As we reflect on her story, we must remember her words: “It is our duty to fight for our freedom. It is our duty to win. We must love and support one another. We have nothing to lose but our chains.”

Assata Shakur: Eyes Of The Rainbow

Unearthing the Roots of Halloween: A Journey Through American Culture

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Halloween, a night of spooky costumes, candy-filled buckets, and eerie decorations, has become a beloved tradition in American culture. But have you ever wondered about the origins of this bewitching holiday? Let’s delve into the historical roots of Halloween and explore its significance in shaping American culture and storytelling.

Ancient Origins and Celtic Traditions

The story of Halloween begins over 2,000 years ago with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. Celebrated on November 1st, Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the “dark half” of the year. The Celts believed that on this night, the boundary between the living and the dead blurred, allowing spirits to roam the earth. To appease these spirits, people would light bonfires, wear costumes, and leave offerings of food and drink.

Evolution and American Influence

As Christianity spread throughout Europe, Samhain gradually merged with All Saints’ Day (November 1st) and All Souls’ Day (November 2nd), creating a three-day observance known as Allhallowtide. Over time, All Hallows’ Eve, the night before All Saints’ Day, became shortened to “Halloween.”

When European immigrants, particularly the Irish, arrived in America, they brought their Halloween traditions with them. These traditions blended with existing American customs, such as harvest festivals and storytelling gatherings, to create the unique Halloween experience we know today.

Halloween in American Culture

Today, Halloween is a time for people of all ages to embrace their imaginations and celebrate the thrill of the unknown. Children eagerly anticipate trick-or-treating, dressing up as their favorite characters, and collecting candy from their neighbors. Adults often attend costume parties, decorate their homes with spooky motifs, and watch horror movies.

Beyond the fun and festivities, Halloween also holds a deeper significance in American culture. It is a time to reflect on the cycle of life and death, to remember loved ones who have passed away, and to confront our fears in a safe and playful way.

The Storytelling Tradition

Halloween has always been closely tied to storytelling. From ancient Celtic myths and legends to classic American horror stories, the holiday has inspired countless tales of ghosts, goblins, witches, and other supernatural beings. These stories serve as a way to explore the darker side of human nature and to teach important lessons about courage, resilience, and the power of community.

Conclusion

Halloween’s rich history and cultural significance have made it an integral part of American life. As we continue to celebrate this beloved holiday, we also keep alive the ancient traditions and storytelling legacy that have shaped our understanding of the world and our place in it. So, this Halloween, as you carve your pumpkins, don your costumes, and share spooky stories, remember the fascinating journey that has brought this unique holiday to our doorstep.

A Salute to French-American History & Culture

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National French Heritage Month, celebrated annually in July within the United States, stands as a testament to the profound impact of French Americans on the nation’s history and cultural fabric. This month-long celebration serves as an occasion to recognize and honor the significant contributions made by French Americans across various domains.

French Americans have played a pivotal role in shaping the United States since the earliest days of European colonization. Intrepid French explorers, traders, and settlers were among the first Europeans to venture into the uncharted territories of North America, leaving their indelible mark on the Midwest, the Great Lakes region, and the Mississippi River Valley. From the establishment of New Orleans – a vibrant city steeped in French culture – to the founding of Detroit, French Americans have left an enduring legacy on the landscape of the United States.

Throughout history, French Americans have made remarkable contributions in numerous spheres. In politics and government, they have held high-ranking positions, serving as presidents, governors, senators, and representatives, shaping policies and decisions that have influenced the course of the nation. In business and industry, French Americans have demonstrated their entrepreneurial spirit, establishing and leading successful enterprises that have driven economic growth and innovation.

French Americans have also left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the United States. Their influence is evident in American literature, where renowned authors such as Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald have woven French themes and settings into their works. In music, French American artists like Edith Piaf and Django Reinhardt have captivated audiences worldwide with their unique blend of jazz and French chanson. In art and film, French American directors, actors, and artists have made significant contributions, bringing a touch of French flair to Hollywood and the art world.

Moreover, French Americans have made notable strides in the fields of science and technology. Their intellectual curiosity and innovative spirit have led to groundbreaking discoveries and inventions. French Americans have played a crucial role in advancing medicine, engineering, and space exploration, contributing to the advancement of human knowledge and progress.

National French Heritage Month provides an opportunity for all Americans to celebrate the rich history and culture of French Americans. It is a time to recognize their invaluable contributions and to appreciate the enduring impact they have had on the United States. Through festivals, parades, educational programs, and cultural events, this month-long celebration fosters a greater understanding and appreciation of French American heritage, strengthening the bonds between the United States and France.

From the early days of exploration and settlement to the present day, France has played a pivotal role in shaping the identity and character of America. This month, let us celebrate and honor this rich legacy with enthusiasm and appreciation.

Here are some ways to celebrate the French influence on American culture and history in July:

  • Culinary Exploration: Indulge in the delectable flavors of French cuisine by visiting a French restaurant or trying your hand at preparing some classic French dishes at home. From the iconic ratatouille to the delicate flavors of coq au vin, there are countless culinary delights to savor.
  • Cinematic Masterpieces: Immerse yourself in the world of French cinema by watching a selection of acclaimed French films. From the poetic realism of Jean Renoir to the New Wave movement of the 1960s, French cinema offers a diverse range of cinematic experiences.
  • Musical Journey: Discover the rich tapestry of French music by listening to various genres, from classical composers such as Debussy and Ravel to contemporary artists like Daft Punk and Christine and the Queens. Let the melodies and rhythms transport you to the vibrant streets of Paris or the serene countryside of Provence.
  • Literary Gems: Dive into the world of French literature by reading some of the most influential works of French authors. From the philosophical insights of Voltaire and Rousseau to the evocative prose of Victor Hugo and Marcel Proust, French literature offers a profound exploration of the human experience.
  • Historical Exploration: Visit French museums or historical sites in the United States to gain a deeper understanding of the French impact on American history. Explore the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana, or marvel at the grandeur of the Château de Ramezay in Montreal, Canada.
  • Language Immersion: Immerse yourself in the beauty and complexity of the French language by learning a few basic phrases or enrolling in a French language class. Even a few simple words and expressions can open up a world of cultural understanding.
  • Festive Celebrations: Attend Bastille Day celebrations, the French national holiday, which takes place on July 14th. Enjoy parades, concerts, and traditional French cuisine while immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere.
  • Theatrical Performances: Experience the vibrant world of French theater by attending a performance of a classic French play or a contemporary work by a French playwright. The Comédie-Française in Paris is a renowned venue for experiencing the best of French theater.

By celebrating the French influence on American culture and history in July, we not only pay tribute to the past but also enrich our present and future. Embrace the opportunity to explore, learn, and appreciate the enduring legacy of France in America.

America’s Dragon Boat Festivals Honors Patriotic Poet & Chinese Culture

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Dragon boat festivals are a vibrant and colorful tradition celebrated in various cities across the United States. These festivals bring together communities to commemorate the ancient Chinese legend of Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet who drowned himself in the Miluo River in protest against government corruption.

Today, dragon boat festivals in America are not only a celebration of Chinese culture but also a platform for cultural exchange and inclusivity. Here are some key aspects of dragon boat festivals in the U.S.:

  1. Cultural Significance:
    • Dragon boat festivals honor the legacy of Qu Yuan and his unwavering spirit of patriotism.
    • They symbolize unity, strength, and the triumph of good over evil.
  2. Competitive Dragon Boat Races:
    • The highlight of the festivals is the thrilling dragon boat races, where teams of paddlers compete in long, narrow, and elaborately decorated boats.
    • Teams paddle in unison to the rhythm of drums, creating an impressive spectacle.
  3. Cultural Performances and Activities:
    • Festivals feature a variety of cultural performances, including traditional Chinese dances, music, martial arts demonstrations, and lion dances.
    • Attendees can also enjoy food stalls offering a range of authentic Chinese delicacies.
    • “Today, rice dumplings are eaten on the day of the Dragon Boat Festival, which is commemorated each year on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. Four days before the festival begins, the dragon boats are taken from their resting places and their heads and tails attached. They are then ritually blessed by a Buddhist monk and later brought to life before the races by having their eyes dotted in red paint.”

4. Community Involvement:

    • Dragon boat festivals are inclusive events that attract people from all backgrounds and ethnicities.
    • They provide an opportunity for communities to come together, celebrate diversity, and foster cultural understanding.

5. Major Cities with Dragon Boat Festivals:

      • Some major cities in the U.S. with notable dragon boat festivals include New York City, San Francisco, Boston, Philadelphia, and San Diego.

6. Popular Venues:

        • Dragon boat festivals are often held in scenic waterways or lakes, providing a picturesque backdrop for the races and cultural performances.

Dragon boat festivals in the United States are a vibrant celebration of Chinese culture and heritage, showcasing the rich diversity of the American cultural landscape. They are a spectacle of color, sound, and tradition that bring communities together in a spirit of unity and inclusivity.

To learn more about this year’s Dragon Boat Festival or to register and join the celebrations, click HERE. And to learn more about the legacy of Qu Yuan, click HERE.

OTD: The Shooting of James Meredith

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On June 6, 1966, James Meredith, a civil rights activist and the first African-American student to enroll at the University of Mississippi, was shot and seriously wounded by a white supremacist during a march in Mississippi.

Meredith had set out from Memphis, Tennessee, on a 220-mile march to Jackson, Mississippi, to protest the continued segregation of the state’s schools and public facilities. He was accompanied by a group of civil rights workers and supporters, both Black and white.

On the second day of the march, as the group was walking along a highway in Grenada County, Mississippi, they were ambushed by a group of white men. Meredith was shot in the back and abdomen, and several other marchers were also injured.

Meredith was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, but he eventually recovered from his injuries. The shooting sparked outrage and protests across the country, and it helped to focus national attention on the issue of civil rights in Mississippi.

The shooting of James Meredith was a turning point in the civil rights movement. It helped to galvanize support for the movement and contributed to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, which outlawed discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations.

Cinco de Mayo: The History, People & Multicultural Celebrations

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Cinco de Mayo is a Mexican holiday that commemorates the anniversary of the Mexican army’s victory over the French army in the Battle of Puebla on 05-05-1862. The battle was a major turning point in the Franco-Mexican War, and the victory is celebrated as a symbol of Mexican resistance to foreign invasion.

The origins of Cinco de Mayo can be traced back to the 1840s, when Mexico was in a state of economic and political turmoil. In 1846, the United States declared war on Mexico, and the two countries fought a war that lasted until 1848. The war ended with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ceded a large portion of Mexican territory to the United States.

In the years that followed the war, Mexico was plagued by political instability and economic problems. In 1861, the Mexican government defaulted on its foreign debt, and the French, British, and Spanish sent naval forces to Mexico to demand repayment.

The French, however, had ulterior motives, and they soon invaded Mexico, hoping to establish a puppet government.

 

E63MJX Mexican dancers, Cinco de Mayo Celebration, Old Mesilla, Las Cruces, New Mexico USA

The Mexican people were outraged by the French invasion, and they rallied to support the government of President Benito Juárez. The French army was much larger and better equipped than the Mexican army, but the Mexicans fought bravely and managed to defeat the French at the Battle of Puebla on 05-05-1862.

The victory at Puebla was a major boost to Mexican morale, and it helped to rally the country against the French invaders. The war continued for several more years, but the French were eventually defeated in 1867. Cinco de Mayo is now a national holiday in Mexico, and it is also celebrated in many parts of the United States. The holiday is a time for Mexicans to celebrate their heritage and to commemorate the victory at Puebla.

Why Americans Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is a holiday celebrated on May 5th to commemorate the Mexican army’s victory over the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Although the battle was a minor victory for Mexico, it became a symbol of Mexican resistance to foreign invasion and has since been celebrated as a day of Mexican pride and heritage in the United States.

There are several reasons why Americans celebrate Cinco de Mayo:

  • Mexican-American heritage: Cinco de Mayo is a significant holiday for Mexican-Americans, who make up a large and vibrant community in the United States. Many Mexican-Americans use Cinco de Mayo as an opportunity to celebrate their culture and heritage.
  • Cultural exchange: Cinco de Mayo is a time for people of all backgrounds to learn about and appreciate Mexican culture. Many cities and towns in the United States host Cinco de Mayo festivals and celebrations, which often include traditional Mexican food, music, and dance.
  • Commercialization: Cinco de Mayo has become a major commercial holiday in the United States, with businesses offering special promotions and discounts. This has helped to raise awareness of the holiday and make it more popular among Americans of all backgrounds.

While Cinco de Mayo is not a federal holiday in the United States, it is widely celebrated across the country. Many people use the day to enjoy Mexican food and drinks, listen to Mexican music, and learn more about Mexican culture.

The Killing of a White Civil Rights Champion in America

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In early March 1965, a peaceful crowd of 600 people began a protest march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, to show their support for Black voting rights. Police armed with batons, pepper spray, and guns attacked the marchers on Selma’s Edmund Pettus Bridge in a violent assault that came to be known as “Bloody Sunday.”

After the attack, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other organizers remained determined to complete the march. Dr. King urged clergy to come to Selma and join the march to Montgomery. Hundreds of clergy from across the country heeded the call and traveled to Selma; one of them was the Reverend James Reeb, a 38-year-old white Unitarian minister from Boston.

On March 9th, Dr. King led 2,500 marchers onto the Edmund Pettus Bridge for a short prayer session. That evening, three white ministers–Orloff Miller, Clark Olsen, and James Reeb–were attacked and beaten by a group of white men opposed to their civil rights work. The Rev. Reeb was struck in the head with a club and suffered a severe skull fracture and brain damage.

Fearing that he would not be treated at the “white only” Selma Hospital, doctors at Selma’s Black Burwell Infirmary ordered the Rev. Reeb rushed to the Birmingham hospital. After a series of unfortunate events, including car trouble and confrontations with local police, the Rev. Reeb reached the hospital in Birmingham in critical condition. He died on March 11, 1965, leaving behind his wife and four children. Three white men later indicted for the Rev. Reeb’s murder were ultimately acquitted by an all-white jury.

More widely reported than the death of local Black activist Jimmie Lee Jackson a few weeks earlier, the Rev. Reeb’s death brought national attention to the voting rights struggle. The death also moved President Lyndon B. Johnson to call a special session of Congress, where he urged legislators to pass the Voting Rights Act. Congress did so, and President Johnson signed the act into law in August 1965.

For more on the history of racial injustice in America, follow Equal Justice Initiative, (EJI).

A History Of Racial Injustice

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On this day — Apr 05, 1880

Black West Point Cadet Brutally Beaten by White Students Days Before Graduation

In the early hours of the morning on April 5, 1880, Cadet Johnson Whittaker, one of the first Black students in the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, was brutally beaten by white cadets while sleeping in his barracks. Three white cadets ambushed Cadet Whittaker, slashed his head and ears, burned his Bible, threatened his life, and then left him in his underwear, tied to the bed and bleeding profusely.

Born enslaved in South Carolina in 1858, Cadet Whittaker received a congressional appointment to the U.S. Military Academy in 1876. For most of his time at West Point, Cadet Whittaker was the only Black cadet at the institution; he endured social exclusion and racial terrorism perpetrated at the hands of white cadets and faculty alike. Twenty-three Black cadets attended West Point between 1870 and 1890, but due to the violent discrimination that they faced, only three graduated. Cadet Whittaker would later testify that he had “read and heard about the treatment that [Black] cadets received there, and expected to be ostracized.”

After Cadet Whittaker reported to West Point administrators that he had been attacked, the institution opened an investigation into him and declined to hold his white attackers accountable. Administrators instead claimed that Cadet Whittaker had staged the attack to get out of his final exams, and in May, a West Point court of inquiry found Cadet Whittaker guilty of that charge. He was forced to take his final exams while incarcerated and withstand court-martial proceedings in New York City where the army prosecutor repeatedly referred to Black people as an “inferior race” known to “feign and sham.”

In January 1881, Brigadier General N.A. Miles affirmed Cadet Whittaker’s conviction and authorized him to be expelled from West Point, dishonorably discharged from the military, and held for continued imprisonment. Cadet Whittaker’s case was ultimately forwarded to President Chester A. Arthur for approval, and, a year later, President Arthur issued an executive order overturning the conviction based on a finding that military prosecutors had relied on improperly admitted evidence. By the time of President Arthur’s intervention, Cadet Whittaker had been incarcerated for nearly two years; even after his conviction was overturned, West Point reinstated Cadet Whittaker’s expulsion, claiming he had failed an exam.

Johnson Whittaker went on to work in several professional fields and raise a family, including several generations of descendants who served in the U.S. military. In 1995, more than 60 years after his death, Mr. Whittaker’s heirs accepted the commission he would have received upon graduating West Point. At the ceremony, President Bill Clinton remarked: “We cannot undo history. But today, finally, we can pay tribute to a great American and we can acknowledge a great injustice.”

To learn more the racial discrimination and violence Black service members and veterans have faced in the U.S. military, explore EJI’s report, Lynching in America: Targeting Black Veterans.

Portrait of Cadet Whittaker at the court-martial proceedings. (Library of Congress)

The History Of Thanksgiving And Why It Matters Today

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BY JEANETTE LENOIR

Every year Americans gleefully celebrate Thanksgiving. Today the holiday has morphed into consumerism, displays of costumed harmony and gratitude shaped by the fables and illusions constructed by those in power demanding we overlook the harsh truth and history of Thanksgiving. Still, no matter how far we stray from the path of truth, and as long as grass grows and water runs, history will remain seated in its scared place on top of the mountain awaiting man’s arrival for deeper knowledge and finally, true freedom rooted in a just and equal world.

Today, young people are still drawing pictures of pilgrims eating harmoniously with Native Americans when that depiction is far from historical fact. The truth, unfortunately, is the brutal genocide of Native Americans. And the official commemoration of Thanksgiving by Abraham Lincoln in 1863 was an idea born from George Washington as a political strategy for pilgrim unification, and in celebration of The Constitution. Historians say the turkeys significance as part of the origin of Thanksgiving, is due to the pilgrims dependence on wild turkeys they found to sustain themselves in their new world. And the national day of celebration was directly tied to their protestant religion of praising God for all the glory, land and newfound opportunities for riches outside the boundaries of Europe.

Equally important to note is how the European settlers defined themselves in an effort to unify and strengthen their hostile takeover of Native American lands. At some point, they no longer wanted to be seen as immigrants. Thus, after forming The Constitution, they evolved from being called pilgrims, colonists, Europeans and finally settling on whites, which essentially removed their specific place of origin across Europe from their identity. This new white institution was to form a political force and also to establish world dominance via the construct of white supremacy. Unfortunately, the “white” label of unity didn’t stop the Civil War from dividing the country, but I digress.

There are numerous historical accounts describing the brutality inflicted upon Native Americans by the pilgrims who came to be known as whites. It’s also important to remember, Black enslaved people were part of this journey of discovery to colonization. And they endured the worst of the pilgrims voyage and eventual settlement of the new world. It’s no secret our American teachings is shaped with many untruths and myths about our journey to this point in time, including the rotund myth of Christopher Columbus. As we advance in our knowledge of the world and its history, it’s becoming more evident that all the lies spun have been to lionize white men and their place in the world. This, despite clear, historical and anthropological accounts to the contrary. From human evolution to advancements in civilization, Africans paved the way.

Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated as a unique American tradition. It’s a day we celebrate the blessings of family, friendships, abundance and American liberty as we know it. Sadly, many Native Americans recognize this day as one of mourning. And rightfully so when you consider the ugly truths of Thanksgiving, which depicts their ancestors in a tale of brotherhood with their killers. Also, Black folks remain economically and socially oppressed in America despite the riches and bounties their ancestors reaped under forced slave labor that the pilgrims who turned white control and use as a dominating global force and superpower.

The significance of Thanksgiving matters, especially today, because we celebrate despite the reality on the ground for the people who suffered the greatest toll in the establishment of this day of harvest, feasting and celebration of our bounties. It’s a callous truth and yet every year we skip to the festive beat of Thanksgiving, with presidential turkey pardoning’s, parades and family gatherings, all while blindly ignoring history and realism. The world I want to live in celebrates a Thanksgiving where all the people who labored for the harvest equally enjoy and benefit from it. And until that day comes, the gobble, gobble will never be sweet in America.