By Ezra Caber

Most Americans first learn about Thanksgiving as a harmonious feast shared by Pilgrims and Native Americans, often depicted as a meal in unity and peace. This story, frequently taught to us in elementary school, contributes to a romanticized version of America’s early history and Manifest Destiny at the early start of the nation. 

However, this narrative oversimplifies and sugar-coats the real story of the “First Thanksgiving.” Although the Wampanoag did interact with the Pilgrims, their relationship was far from idyllic, and actually full of conflict. 

Massasoit, the Grand Sachem of the Wampanoag, initially forged an alliance with the Pilgrims. He and his warriors attended a feast held by the settlers. However, by 1637, there was little peace between the groups. Colonists from Plymouth, Saybrook, and Massachusetts Bay massacred and burned the Pequot men and women. These colonial authorities enslaved the survivors and sent them to Bermuda. This was just the beginning of the decline in Native American populations over the next two centuries. 

Today, many Native Americans observe the National Day of Mourning on the fourth Thursday of November rather than Thanksgiving. They use this time to honor those who suffered and died due to English colonization. This commemoration began in 1970, organized by Wampanoag leader Wamsutta Frank James. When James was kept from delivering his planned speech about the true history of Thanksgiving, the National Day of Mourning was established as a form of protest and remembrance. 

Although Thanksgiving for most Americans centers on gratitude, family, and food, there is an opportunity to reframe the holiday. Sean Sherman, founder and CEO of The Sioux Chef and member of the Oglala Lakota Sioux, advocates for focusing on values like gratitude without perpetuating myths. 

“We do not need that illusion of past unity to unite people today. Instead, we can focus simply on values that apply to everybody: togetherness, generosity, and gratitude,” Sherman wrote for TIME. “And we can make the day about what everybody wants to talk and think about anyway: the food.”

Sherman also encourages Americans to support Native-owned businesses, especially during this time of year. He hopes Americans will use this time to deepen their understanding of America’s history and how we continue to stand on Indigenous land.

“There is no need to make Thanksgiving about a false past. It is so much better when it celebrates the beauty of the present,” Sherman said. 

By reflecting on this broader, more inclusive perspective, Thanksgiving can evolve into a celebration that acknowledges historical truths while embracing shared values.