Unthanksgiving Day – often referred to as the National Day of #Mourning – is a powerful observance that challenges mainstream narratives surrounding #Thanksgiving. The day reminds the #world of #centuries of #injustice, #displacement, and #suffering experienced by #Indigenous communities across #NorthAmerica. As soon as we mention #UnthanksgivingDay, we acknowledge that history carries many #layers, and not all of them are #celebratory. This article explores the day’s #deeper meaning, its #origins, #significance, and #how communities #commemorate it each year. In today’s #world, where #awareness and #empathy are #essential, Unthanksgiving Day becomes more relevant than #ever.
History of Unthanksgiving Day
The history of Unthanksgiving Day is rooted in activism, truth-telling, and the reclaiming of Indigenous narratives. The first official observance of this day began in 1975, initiated by the American Indian Movement (AIM) and other Indigenous rights groups. The event emerged as a form of peaceful counter-celebration to the American Thanksgiving holiday, which often overlooks the painful realities faced by Native American communities since the arrival of European settlers.
However, the roots of protest and mourning go even further back. In 1969, a monumental event set the foundation for what later became Unthanksgiving Day: the Occupation of Alcatraz Island by a group known as the Indians of All Tribes (IAT). This bold 19-month occupation captured global attention and forced the world to acknowledge broken treaties, land rights violations, and the cultural erasure Indigenous communities were fighting against.
By 1975, the commemorative event was formalized as “Unthanksgiving Day,” also called the “Indigenous Peoples Sunrise Ceremony.” It symbolized resilience, remembrance, survival, and the refusal to let true history remain buried. Since then, the observance has continued annually, evolving into a powerful symbol of Indigenous unity and cultural revival.
Importance of Unthanksgiving Day
The importance of Unthanksgiving Day lies in its mission to reveal hidden truths and challenge historically biased narratives. While mainstream Thanksgiving often glorifies harmony between early settlers and Indigenous peoples, the reality involves centuries of colonization, broken promises, and cultural devastation.
Unthanksgiving Day is important because:
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It honors Indigenous resilience.
The day celebrates survival despite centuries of attempts to erase Indigenous identity and culture. -
It brings historical accuracy to public consciousness.
It encourages society to reconsider simplified narratives and seek the truth behind them. -
It amplifies Indigenous voices.
The day offers a platform for Indigenous leaders, elders, artists, and youth to share their stories and perspectives. -
It promotes cultural preservation.
Ceremonies and gatherings help pass down cultural knowledge and traditions. -
It highlights ongoing struggles.
Issues like land rights, resource exploitation, cultural erasure, and systemic inequality remain modern realities.
In essence, Unthanksgiving Day is a reminder that while society celebrates gratitude, it must also acknowledge the cost paid by Indigenous communities.
When Unthanksgiving Day Is Celebrated
Unthanksgiving Day is celebrated every year on the fourth Thursday of November, the same day as the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday. The date was chosen intentionally to present a counter-narrative to the national celebration that often romanticizes early colonial history.
By observing the day on Thanksgiving, activists aim to:
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Challenge inaccurate portrayals of early settler-Indigenous relations.
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Remind the world that colonialism continues to impact Indigenous communities.
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Highlight that gratitude celebrations should not overshadow historical injustices.
The day begins with a sunrise ceremony, symbolizing hope, renewal, and acknowledgement of ancestors.
Significance of Unthanksgiving Day
The significance of Unthanksgiving Day goes beyond remembrance. It serves as a platform for education, activism, solidarity, and healing.
Key aspects of its significance include:
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Cultural Revitalization
Indigenous languages, songs, dances, and rituals often take center stage. These acts revive traditions that colonization attempted to suppress. -
Political Awareness
The day highlights present-day issues such as environmental destruction, the fight for sacred lands, and the need for Indigenous sovereignty. -
Community Gathering
Indigenous families and allies come together, strengthening unity and intergenerational bonds. -
Correcting Historical Narratives
Schools, organizations, and individuals use the day to educate themselves on actual historical events. -
Honoring Ancestors
The observance pays deep respect to those who resisted oppression and fought for survival.
Unthanksgiving Day is not anti-gratitude; it is anti-erasure. It reminds society that healing begins with truth.
Why Unthanksgiving Day Is Celebrated
Unthanksgiving Day is celebrated to:
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Acknowledge the painful truth about colonization, genocide, and cultural destruction faced by Indigenous communities.
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Honor their endurance and ongoing fight for recognition and rights.
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Educate future generations about Indigenous history from Indigenous perspectives.
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Challenge myths surrounding the traditional Thanksgiving story.
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Promote justice, equity, and cultural preservation.
For many, the day is not about rejecting gratitude but about shifting the lens through which history is told.
How Unthanksgiving Day Is Celebrated
The celebration of Unthanksgiving Day is deeply symbolic, spiritual, and activist-oriented. While each community may have its own approach, some common traditions include:
1. Sunrise Ceremonies
Participants gather at dawn, often on Alcatraz Island in California. Elders lead prayers, chants, and rituals honoring ancestors and the spirit of resilience.
2. Traditional Songs and Dances
These performances are expressions of identity, resistance, and cultural pride.
3. Storytelling Sessions
Elders and community leaders share oral histories, correcting misconceptions about colonial interactions and celebrating Indigenous heritage.
4. Speeches and Activism
Human rights advocates, tribal leaders, and activists speak on issues such as land back movements, environmental protection, and treaty rights.
5. Cultural Workshops
Workshops may include beadwork, traditional cooking, language lessons, and art demonstrations.
6. Community Feasts
Although the meaning differs from Thanksgiving, communal eating still plays a role. Foods are chosen based on local traditions and cultural significance.
7. Peaceful Marches or Gatherings
Some communities organize solidarity walks, rallies, and events promoting justice and awareness.
8. Educational Events
Schools, universities, and community centers host seminars and discussions on Indigenous history and culture.
Unthanksgiving Day is emotionally profound—equal parts mourning and celebration.
Where Unthanksgiving Day Is Celebrated
While the day has its strongest roots in the United States, its message resonates worldwide.
Major regions where Unthanksgiving Day is observed include:
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United States (especially California)
The largest celebration occurs on Alcatraz Island, drawing thousands annually. -
Canada
Observed by Indigenous communities and activists, especially around National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. -
Mexico
Some Indigenous rights groups and cultural organizations engage in similar events acknowledging colonial histories. -
Parts of Europe
Activist communities hold discussions and solidarity events. -
Australia and New Zealand
Indigenous rights groups recognize the parallels between Indigenous struggles globally.
The day has evolved into a worldwide symbol of Indigenous resilience and truth-telling.
How Citizens Involve Themselves and Make the Day a Success
Unthanksgiving Day becomes meaningful when individuals actively participate. Citizens – both Indigenous and non-Indigenous – contribute in various ways:
1. Attending Ceremonies
Being physically present at sunrise gatherings shows solidarity.
2. Listening and Learning
Opening space for Indigenous voices is one of the most impactful actions individuals can take.
3. Supporting Indigenous Art, Businesses, and Crafts
Economic empowerment strengthens communities.
4. Sharing Educational Content
People use social media to amplify Indigenous stories, quotes, and historical facts.
5. Volunteering
Helping organize events, providing transportation, or offering resources strengthens community efforts.
6. Advocating for Policy Change
Signing petitions, supporting land rights, and urging local governments to honor treaties all contribute to long-term change.
7. Teaching Children the Truth
Parents and educators play a crucial role in reshaping historical understanding for future generations.
8. Reflecting with Empathy
Many take time to reflect on how they can be better allies to Indigenous movements.
Through collective participation, the spirit of Unthanksgiving Day grows every year.
Theme for Unthanksgiving Day 2025
“Truth, Healing, and Sovereignty”
The 2025 theme emphasizes the need for honest storytelling, collective healing, and Indigenous control over land, culture, and identity. It encourages communities worldwide to listen, learn, and support meaningful change.
10 Famous Quotes for Unthanksgiving Day
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“History must be told from every side if healing is to begin.”
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“We honor our ancestors not by forgetting the pain, but by living with pride.”
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“Truth is the first step toward justice.”
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“Indigenous survival is an act of resistance in itself.”
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“You cannot erase a people whose roots grow deeper than time.”
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“Our stories are our strength, and we will keep telling them.”
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“Unthanksgiving is not about anger; it is about truth.”
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“Where the land remembers, the people rise.”
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“Celebrate resilience, acknowledge history, and honor culture.”
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“The past shapes us, but unity shapes our future.”
FAQ’s on Unthanksgiving Day
1. What is Unthanksgiving Day?
Unthanksgiving Day is an annual observance that highlights the struggles, resilience, and history of Indigenous communities, especially in response to colonial narratives linked to Thanksgiving.
2. Why is it called Unthanksgiving Day?
The term challenges the traditional Thanksgiving narrative and draws attention to Indigenous perspectives and historical injustices.
3. When is Unthanksgiving Day celebrated?
It is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, the same day as Thanksgiving in the United States.
4. Who started Unthanksgiving Day?
It was initiated by Indigenous activists, mainly the American Indian Movement (AIM) and groups connected with the Indians of All Tribes (IAT) movement.
5. What happens on Unthanksgiving Day?
Sunrise ceremonies, cultural performances, storytelling, activism, community gatherings, and educational events are held.
6. Is Unthanksgiving Day anti-Thanksgiving?
It is not anti-gratitude; it is anti-erasure. It focuses on truth and remembrance rather than celebration.
7. Where is the main celebration held?
The most prominent ceremony takes place on Alcatraz Island, California.
8. Why do people observe Unthanksgiving Day?
To honor Indigenous resilience, correct historical narratives, and highlight ongoing struggles for rights and recognition.
9. Is Unthanksgiving Day only for Indigenous people?
No. Many allies, educators, activists, and citizens participate.
10. What is the difference between Unthanksgiving Day and National Day of Mourning?
Both share similar goals but have different origins and locations. National Day of Mourning is held in Massachusetts, while Unthanksgiving Day centers around Alcatraz Island.
11. How can individuals observe Unthanksgiving Day?
By attending ceremonies, learning Indigenous history, supporting Indigenous businesses, and raising awareness.
12. Is Unthanksgiving Day recognized officially?
It is not a national holiday but widely recognized through activism and community efforts.
13. Why is education important on this day?
Because much of Indigenous history is misrepresented or omitted in mainstream narratives.
14. Is Unthanksgiving Day controversial?
Yes, as it challenges long-established cultural traditions, but it is essential for historical accuracy and justice.
15. What is the purpose of the sunrise ceremony?
It symbolizes renewal, remembrance, and ancestral honor.
Conclusion
Unthanksgiving Day stands as a powerful reminder that history must be acknowledged in its entirety. It is a day of mourning, resilience, cultural pride, and truth. By understanding its origins, meaning, and importance, we become more aware of the struggles Indigenous communities continue to face. More importantly, Unthanksgiving Day teaches us that healing begins with honesty. As the world grows more conscious and compassionate, this observance becomes not just a day of remembrance but a call to action – urging society to listen, learn, and stand with Indigenous voices everywhere.
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My name is Subhajit Bhattacharya , I am a Instrumentatin Engineer and working as a content writer for this site, All the information of this site is only for educational purpose.
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