Thanksgiving and Political Tensions
Some might say that resistance liberals have a strong dislike for Donald Trump, capitalism, and, well, various elements of American culture. Yet, when it comes to Thanksgiving, it seems they don’t fully opt-out.
Perhaps it’s that, after spending nearly a year protesting, there’s just a bit of fatigue setting in. Baby boomer protesters probably need to recharge after yelling at street corners and making quite the spectacle with inflatable Trump figures. Meanwhile, younger Zoomers and Millennials, who tend to voice their opinions online, might have to take a break—especially if mom insists on it.
There’s likely a realization among these liberals that turning Thanksgiving into a political battleground could backfire. Most Americans, regardless of their political leanings, genuinely cherish this holiday. Thanksgiving is special. It stands out, even next to Christmas. It’s a time to gather with family and friends, indulge in food, and perhaps, enjoy a bit of the NFL. There’s something freeing about it—eating to your heart’s content and not feeling guilty about the extra weight gained. Sure, it’s a moment to reflect on what we’re thankful for: family, health, and other vital aspects of life. Truly, gratitude is a positive feeling to embrace.
In fact, I think many liberals actually have a soft spot for Thanksgiving. They likely enjoy the traditions—the favorite family recipes, the warm conversations over wine, or perhaps some lighthearted soccer games in the backyard. Even if they go out with friends the night before and end up nursing a hangover with leftovers, it’s all part of the experience.
Thanksgiving possesses a certain resilience. No matter the circumstances in America—be it economic downturns, job losses, or even global conflicts—this holiday seems to retain its significance. Come that last Thursday in November, people will still gather, share a meal, and count their blessings.
Because of this, even the staunchest leftists often don’t outright dismiss Thanksgiving. Michael Jordan once famously remarked about staying out of politics because, well, Republicans buy sneakers too. I wouldn’t be surprised if some people from Antifa ended up celebrating the holiday in their own way.
