National Day of Mourning 2023: The National Day of Mourning occurs annually on November 23, which falls on the fourth Thursday of November this year. The occurrence of Thanksgiving in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November renders this date recognizable to some. On the National Day of Mourning, Native Americans in New England convene annually for a protest. Thanksgiving functions as a poignant reminder to them of the inequitable treatment inflicted upon Native Americans ever since the Plymouth landing in 1620.
National Day of Mourning History
All are reminded on National Day of Mourning that Thanksgiving is merely a portion of the greater narrative. Thanksgiving Day has been observed by Native Americans at noon on Cole’s Hill in Plymouth, Massachusetts, since 1970, in observance of a National Day of Mourning.
In 1620, the Pilgrims arrived in Plymouth and instituted the initial colony. Thus, it is the oldest municipality in the state of New England. In contrast, numerous Native Americans abstain from commemorating the advent of European settlers, including the Pilgrims. They regard Thanksgiving as a sobering reminder of “the theft of Native lands and lands, the genocide against millions of Native people, and the relentless assault on Native culture.”
By participating, they demonstrate respect for Native ancestors and the ongoing struggles of Native peoples to endure. “In addition to being a day of spiritual connection and remembrance, it is a demonstration against the ongoing racism and oppression that Native Americans continue to face.”
The United American Indians of New England (UAINE) are sponsoring this event. It is their contention that upon their arrival in North America, the Pilgrims appropriated tribal land without first establishing a mutually advantageous relationship with the indigenous people. Members of the UAINE hold the view that the colonizers “introduced racism, sexism, anti-homosexual prejudice, imprisonment, and the social class system.”
In general, the National Day of Mourning commences at noon and features a procession through Plymouth’s historic district. Although the UAINE promotes the participation of individuals from diverse backgrounds in the protests, invitations are extended exclusively to Native speakers who deliver speeches addressing historical challenges and contemporary triumphs of their people. Desserts, non-alcoholic beverages, fresh fruits and vegetables, or pre-cooked items are requested of attendees. Outsiders are welcome to attend the demonstration, which has drawn other minority activists.
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FAQs on the National Day of Mourning
In reality, what transpired in 1621?
The Pilgrims utilized firearms and cannons to commemorate their first bountiful harvest in Plymouth. Wampanoag Nation ancestors were roused by the commotion and dispatched to investigate. Thus, indigenous individuals became present at the very first Thanksgiving.
Do federal offices observe a national day of mourning by being closed?
Government offices in the United States are closed on National Day of Mourning in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.
On the National Day of Mourning, what takes place?
Supporters and Native Americans assemble in Plymouth for a solemn remembrance of “the genocide that befell our peoples and the theft of their lands.”
National Day of Mourning 2023 Activities
Refresh your knowledge of history
Are you well-informed regarding the initial Thanksgiving? Engaging in online research, visiting a local library, or viewing a documentary are all viable options for acquiring a more comprehensive understanding of the actual experiences of Native Americans.
Gain a deeper understanding of the United American Indians of New England (UAINE).
UAINE contributed to the formation of the National Day of Mourning demonstration. In order to observe this significant day, devote some time to researching the UAINE. The organization in question is quite intriguing, as it has significantly advanced the cause of improved treatment for Native Americans.
Observe a protest
Protesters congregate at Cole’s Hill, an elevated site that provides a panoramic view of Plymouth Rock, situated in Massachusetts. All individuals are invited to attend these assemblies, and in recent times, additional minority groups have begun to actively participate in the occurrences of this day.
NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | November 23 | Thursday |
| 2024 | November 28 | Thursday |
| 2025 | November 27 | Thursday |
