NPR

For Many Native Americans, Fall Is The Least Wonderful Time Of The Year

"Fall is the annual middle finger this country gives Native Americans," says one member of the Oglala Lakota nation.
Source: Frank Rumpenhorst

"Do Indians celebrate Thanksgiving?"

I am asked this question at least once every fall. Which, by the way, is too many times.

The answer is that my family (though I can't speak for the other 5 million Indigenous people in America) doesn't. Not the "brave-pilgrims-and-friendly-savages" version of the holiday, anyway. Twenty or 30 of us might gather under the same roof to share a meal. We'll thank the creator for our blessings.

But that could be true of any Thursday night in a Wampanoag house.

Wish any of us a

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
Bringing The Wild Things Back To Campus
Gray and windy weather didn't stop students at The College of New Jersey from showing up for planting day. They wore UGG slippers and white sneakers --not the best footwear to stomp around in the dirt, but they pressed on, clearing weeds and then pla
NPR4 min read
These People Waited Hours To See The Trump Hush-money Trial Up Close. Here's Why
New Yorkers and tourists alike stand in line outside the Manhattan criminal court with hopes of securing a spot in one of the rooms where the trial against former President Donald Trump can be viewed.
NPR4 min read
Michael Cohen, A Key Witness In The Trump Hush Money Trial, Returns To The Stand
He once boasted of being Donald Trump's "protector" but now he is testifying to lying for Trump's benefit, including about payments made to an adult film star ahead of the 2016 election.

Related Books & Audiobooks