Annually, on the fourth Thursday of November, the National Day of Mourning acknowledges a solemn moment for reflection. This observance provides an opportunity to contemplate Native American heritage and the historical impact of Thanksgiving on their ancestors' lives.

History

• Origins: The National Day of Mourning was established in 1970 by United American Indians of New England (UAINE). It was initiated after Wamsutta (Frank James), a Wampanoag leader, was invited to speak at a Pilgrim anniversary celebration but was silenced when his speech highlighted the harsh realities faced by Native Americans due to colonization.
• First Observance: The first National Day of Mourning took place on November 26, 1970, in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Participants gathered to protest the sanitized version of Thanksgiving and to mourn the loss and suffering of Native American ancestors.
• Annual Tradition: Since its inception, the National Day of Mourning has been observed every year in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and has grown to include participants from various Native American tribes and supporters from across the country.

Significance

The National Day of Mourning holds significant importance for several reasons:

1. Recognition of History: It acknowledges the true history of Thanksgiving and the impact of European colonization on Native American communities.
2. Honor and Remembrance: It honors the ancestors of Native Americans who suffered and lost their lives due to colonization, genocide, and displacement.
3. Awareness and Education: It raises awareness about the ongoing struggles of Native American communities and promotes education about their history and rights.
4. Solidarity and Support: It provides an opportunity for allies to show solidarity with Native American communities and support their fight for justice and recognition.

Ways to Observe

1. Attend a National Day of Mourning Event:

   • Plymouth Gathering: Participate in the annual gathering in Plymouth, Massachusetts, which includes speeches, prayers, and a march through the historic area.
   • Local Observances: Attend local events or observances organized by Native American communities and advocacy groups.

2. Educate Yourself and Others:

   • Read and Research: Learn about the history of Thanksgiving from a Native American perspective, including the true impact of colonization and the stories of indigenous resistance and resilience.
   • Watch Documentaries: Watch documentaries and films that provide insight into Native American history and contemporary issues.

3. Support Native American Communities:

   • Donate: Contribute to organizations and causes that support Native American rights, education, and cultural preservation.
   • Shop Indigenous: Purchase goods from Native American-owned businesses and artisans to support their economic sustainability.

4. Advocate for Change:

   • Raise Awareness: Use social media and other platforms to share information about the National Day of Mourning and the history and rights of Native Americans.
   • Engage Politically: Advocate for policies and legislation that protect Native American lands, rights, and resources.

5. Reflect and Mourn:

   • Personal Reflection: Take time to reflect on the history and ongoing struggles of Native American communities. Consider how you can contribute to positive change.
   • Moment of Silence: Observe a moment of silence to honor the lives lost and the suffering endured by Native Americans due to colonization.

6. Participate in Educational Programs:

   • Workshops and Seminars: Attend workshops, seminars, or lectures that focus on Native American history, culture, and contemporary issues.
   • School Programs: Encourage educational institutions to include Native American history and perspectives in their curricula.

Fun Facts About Native American History and Culture

1. Diverse Nations: There are 574 federally recognized Native American tribes in the United States, each with its own unique culture, language, and history.
2. Historical Contributions: Native Americans have contributed significantly to agriculture, medicine, and environmental stewardship, with innovations such as the cultivation of corn, potatoes, and tomatoes.
3. Cultural Heritage: Native American art, music, dance, and storytelling are rich and diverse, reflecting the deep cultural heritage and traditions of their communities.

Inspirational Quotes About Justice and Remembrance

1. "They made us many promises, more than I can remember. But they kept but one: They promised to take our land, and they took it." – Red Cloud
2. "We will be known forever by the tracks we leave." – Dakota Proverb
3. "Honor the sacred. Honor the Earth, our Mother. Honor the Elders. Honor all with whom we share the Earth: Four-legged, two-legged, winged ones, swimmers, crawlers, plant and rock people. Walk in balance and beauty." – Native American Elder

Conclusion

The National Day of Mourning is a powerful observance that challenges the traditional Thanksgiving narrative and honors the resilience and strength of Native American communities. Whether attending events, educating yourself and others, supporting Native American causes, advocating for change, reflecting and mourning, or participating in educational programs, there are many ways to observe this important day. The National Day of Mourning encourages everyone to acknowledge the true history of colonization, honor Native American ancestors, and support ongoing efforts for justice and recognition.