A Thanksgiving Message of Acknowledgement, Gratitude, and Transformation
Each November, as families across the country gather to share food and gratitude, we at Crow Canyon pause to reflect on the complex story behind the Thanksgiving holiday. It is important to recognize that Thanksgiving is not a universally celebratory day. Alongside the traditional holiday, observances in other parts of the country—such as the National Day of Mourning—honor the difficult and painful histories tied to this time of year. Many Indigenous people and others use this moment to reflect on the lasting impacts of colonization and on how Thanksgiving has become a heavily commercialized event, often far removed from the historical truths and critical questions it invites us to consider.
As we continue working to center Indigenous perspectives at Crow Canyon, we also honor the diversity within Native nations and communities. There is no single story, viewpoint, or experience. For some, resilience is rooted not only in acknowledgment of the past but also in an extraordinary capacity for forgiveness—extended where and to whom it is needed. Equally essential is accountability: the practice of holding ourselves, our leaders, and one another responsible for our words and actions. Yet accountability on its own is not enough. We understand that in Pueblo tradition, balance is at the core. It is not sufficient to be angry, or to forgive, or even to hold others accountable. We must also ask: What transformation can emerge from these actions?
As we sit down for our Thanksgiving meals and express gratitude for what we have, let us also consider how gratitude might guide us toward meaningful action. How can we acknowledge the historical and ongoing trauma experienced by Indigenous peoples—and work to transform that acknowledgment into something better, brighter, and more just for all?
This season, may we give thanks with honesty, humility, and intention. Acknowledge the Indigenous lands beneath our feet. Learn the histories that shaped this nation. Consider how to support Native voices and communities—not only on Thanksgiving Day, but throughout the year. In doing so, we can help transform Thanksgiving into a moment of truth-telling, reflection, and renewed commitment to justice—a day that honors both the past and the living strength of Indigenous peoples.
This Thanksgiving, we challenge ourselves to reflect deeply on accountability, action, and transformation. These ideas are not abstract—they are lived values within Indigenous communities and many others. We invite you to explore the complex, interwoven histories highlighted in the Canes of Power film, which beautifully illustrates resilience and transformative practice.
We are grateful every single day for all of you who support Crow Canyon. We truly could not do our work without your generosity, kindness, patience, and presence in our lives and in our mission.
With love and thanks—on Thanksgiving Day and every day.