Night Talks | Thanksgiving Day

To begin with, Dr. Jones-Katz introduced the origin of Thanksgiving. According to folklore, it originated from the Mayflower ship’ s voyage to Massachusetts in 1620, when a group of Pilgrims had fled the volatile political environment in Europe to America and met native people there. Thanksgiving was celebrated in the name of their friendship. Nevertheless, no historical record could prove the veracity of the tale. Besides, he referred that this festival was also a day of remembrance for Native Americans, whose society was disturbed by the arrival of Pilgrims. This part of the story, however, which Americans are evasive about in their contemporary and modern celebration of Thanksgiving, is not an appropriate topic in public. 

After learning the history, active students put questions to show their interests in Thanksgiving Day dinner menu. As Dr. Jones-Katz kindly detailed several traditional dishes, including turkey, apple tart, mashed potatoes, etc.

JDr. Jones-Katz was followed by Dr. Thomas Carroll, the philosophy PhD who aimed to guide students to analyze Thanksgiving in the light of philosophy/ guide students’ philosophical thinking in Thanksgiving. What’s the meaning of celebrating Thanksgiving? Do you have to be thankful when you use the word of “thanksgiving”? Dr. Thomas Carroll’s inspiring speculation stimulated many thoughts and speeches.

Warm Syrup was served during the event. Please take care of yourself and keep warm in upcoming cold days.