A New Thanksgiving Tradition

The United American Indians of New England (UAINE), is a Native-led organization of Native people and their supporters who battle against racism and support Indigenous struggles - not only in New England but throughout the Americas. They have organized against the Pilgrim mythology perpetuated in Plymouth and protested the use of racist team names and mascots in sports. In 1970, United American Indians of New England declared US Thanksgiving Day a National Day of Mourning. In the words of UAINE activists;

"The first official 'Day of Thanksgiving' was proclaimed in 1637 by Governor Winthrop. He did so to celebrate the safe return of men from Massachusetts who had gone to Mystic, Connecticut to participate in the massacre of over 700 Pequot women, children, and men. About the only true thing in the whole mythology is that these pitiful European strangers would not have survived their first several years in 'New England' were it not for the aid of Wampanoag people. What Native people got in return for this help was genocide, theft of our lands, and never-ending repression."

Over the years, participants in the National Day of Mourning have buried Plymouth Rock a number of times and boarded the Mayflower replica - placing ku klux klan sheets on the statue of William Bradford. The Indigenous people's tradition of mourning on 'Thanksgiving Day' continues, and this year will be the 37th annual National Day of Mourning. A march and protest has been called for Nov. 23rd, 2006, to take place on Cole's Hill, directly above Plymouth Rock in Plymouth, MA. UAINE activists have released a statement regarding the event:2006 National Day of Mourning:

Since 1970, Native Americans have gathered at noon on Cole's Hill in Plymouth to commemorate a National Day of Mourning on the US thanksgiving holiday. Many Native Americans do not celebrate the arrival of the Pilgrims and other European settlers. Thanksgiving day is a reminder of the genocide of millions of Native people, the theft of Native lands, and the relentless assault on Native culture. Participants in National Day of Mourning honor Native ancestors and the struggles of Native peoples to survive today. It is a day of remembrance and spiritual connection as well as a protest of the racism and oppression which Native Americans continue to experience. Join us as we dedicate the 37th National Day of Mourning to our brother, Native political prisoner Leonard Peltier. Add your voice to the millions world-wide who demand his freedom. Help us in our struggle to create a true awareness of Native peoples and demonstrate the unity of Indigenous peoples internationally. Help shatter the untrue glass image of the Pilgrims and the unjust system based on racism, sexism, homophobia and war.

Since 1970, the National Day of Mourning has been a solemn, spiritual and highly political day. While most of us will not be able to travel to Plymouth Rock to join with our Indigenous sisters and brothers - we can still offer our support. Show your solidarity with the first people's of this land, by joining them in fasting and prayer. Since it is a time when families and friends gather, take the opportunity to rededicate 'Thanksgiving' to all Indigenous peoples - acknowledging their humanity, bravery and contributions to civilization [ You can read more about UAINE at their website - www.uaine.org ]