All My Relations Podcast ThanksTaking or ThanksGiving?
Nov 20, 2020
Paula Peters and Linda Coombs, Wampanoag scholars, discuss the real story of Thanksgiving from an Indigenous perspective. They explore the contrast between stereotypical American celebrations and Indigenous practices of gratitude. The episode delves into the fight for federal recognition and cultural revitalization for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. Additionally, it emphasizes the need to move beyond land acknowledgments and take concrete action towards supporting Indigenous communities.
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Gratitude As Ongoing Practice
- Thanksgiving as a single annual gratitude ritual flattens Indigenous daily practices of giving thanks.
- Indigenous gratitude is ritualized, frequent, and shapes respectful behavior toward land and beings.
Salmon Ceremony And Water Offerings
- Paula Peters describes the salmon ceremony where the community gives thanks before harvest and makes ocean offerings.
- She says fishermen offer to the four corners and people cleanse in saltwater, introducing themselves and asking permission before entering.
Thanksgiving Myth Reinforces Entitlement
- The hosts link entitlement in Thanksgiving myth to manifest destiny and colonial superiority.
- They argue humility and regular giving thanks are prerequisites for good relations and decolonization.