Thanksgiving is a well-known and celebrated holiday in the United States. As an educator, you might find yourself focusing on American interpretations of the holiday. But, as we know, awareness and appreciation of different cultures are essential components of a well-rounded education. This article offers insights into teaching students about Thanksgiving beyond America – exploring its global footprint and international significance.
Understanding the History
First and foremost, understanding the history of Thanksgiving in the United States is crucial for teaching its broader cultural context. The holiday traces back to the early 17th century when European settlers arrived on American shores. Thanksgiving emerged out of a feast shared by Native Americans and Pilgrims to celebrate their survival through harsh conditions.
The Significance of Harvest Festivals
It’s essential to recognize that many cultures around the world celebrate harvest festivals. These events hold deep significance, where communities come together to appreciate and share the bounty of their hard work. Some international celebrations similar to Thanksgiving include:
Canada: Canadian Thanksgiving shares similarities with its American counterpart and takes place on the second Monday of October each year.
Germany: Erntedankfest is a harvest festival celebrated with parades, live music, and festive meals in local communities throughout Germany during September or October.
Korea: Chuseok is a three-day holiday where families gather to honor their ancestors and enjoy feasts made from freshly harvested produce.
Japan: Kinrō Kansha no Hi – Labor Thanksgiving Day – is an annual event commemorating workers’ rights, celebrated with festivities that give thanks for the prosperity brought by hard work.
Highlighting Diverse Traditions
Incorporate activities that expose students to various aspects of international Thanksgiving traditions. For example:
Food: Have students research traditional dishes from different countries’ harvest festivals and create a multi-cultural menu for an international Thanksgiving.
Music: Encourage students to explore traditional music played during harvest celebrations around the world.
Customs: Discuss international customs related to gratitude, such as Japanese Omikuji fortune papers or Korea’s Charye ancestral memorial rites.
Art: Collaborate with the art department to showcase students’ drawings or paintings representing global harvest festivals.
