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Thanksgiving is a complex and often controversial holiday for many American Indians. Here are some key points about the significance and perception of Thanksgiving among Native Americans:

Historical Context

1. The traditional Thanksgiving story often misrepresents or oversimplifies the relationship between European settlers and Native Americans.
2. For many Native Americans, Thanksgiving is a reminder of the genocide of millions of Native people, the theft of Native lands, and the ongoing assault on Native culture.

Day of Mourning

1. Some Native American groups, particularly in the New England area, observe Thanksgiving as a Day of Mourning.
2. The United American Indians of New England have marked the occasion as a day of mourning for 48 years.
3. This observance honors Native ancestors and the struggles of Native peoples to survive today.