Unthanksgiving Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Unthanksgiving Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Unthanksgiving Day is observed on November 24th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Unthanksgiving Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as interesting facts you ought to know about Unthanksgiving Day.

📅 What day is Unthanksgiving Day 2024?

In 2024, Unthanksgiving Day is on Friday, November 24th. It is the 4th Friday in November; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all intriguing details and facts about November 24, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Unthanksgiving Day, also known as the National Day of Mourning or Indigenous Peoples Sunrise Ceremony, is observed on the fourth Thursday of November. This year, it will be held on November 24. The ceremony takes place on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay and aims to honor and support the rights of Indigenous peoples in the United States. Interestingly, this day coincides with Thanksgiving, as it was intentionally chosen to align with the Thanksgiving holiday.

📜 Unthanksgiving Day History

Unthanksgiving Day is a special day that acts as a counter-celebration to Thanksgiving. Its purpose is to honor Native Americans and raise awareness about their rights. It recognizes the indigenous peoples who inhabited the Americas before Europeans arrived and commends their resilience and resistance over time.

The origins of Unthanksgiving Day are quite interesting. In 1969, after the closure of Alcatraz prison, Native Americans began reclaiming Alcatraz Island. They occupied the island for 19 months as a symbolic act, asserting their rights based on the Fort Laramie/Sioux Treaty of 1868.

During this period, some Native Americans actively participated in the civil rights movement and voiced their grievances. Unfortunately, on June 11, 1971, the US government forcibly removed them from the island.

On November 27, 1975, the first Unthanksgiving Day was organized by the International Treaty Council and American Indian Contemporary Arts. Choosing Thanksgiving Day as the date was intentional, as it serves as a reminder of the hardships and losses that Native Americans endured due to European colonization. Today, Alcatraz Island is open to the public, attracting visitors who come to witness the sunrise, advocate for indigenous rights, and honor their ancestors.

✅ Unthanksgiving Day Facts

🔖 Teepees and other houses
Contrary to what is shown in movies, Native American tribes resided in various types of dwellings such as longhouses and pueblos, not solely in teepees.

🔖 2% of the population
As of 2019, approximately 2% of the American population identifies themselves as either American Indians or Alaska Natives.

🔖 There were female warriors
In addition to their roles in cooking, sewing, and taking care of the camp, women also participated alongside men in riding and engaging in battles.

👍 Why Is Unthanksgiving Day Important

Although many lives were lost in the battle, it remains a crucial element of world history. It is commemorated to remember the suffering of Native Americans.
Although few people are aware of it, Thanksgiving Day is one of the most significant days of the year.
The entire objective of commemorating this day is to educate present-day Americans about the sorrow that individuals have endured throughout the nation’s history. Learn everything you can today.

🙂 How To Observe Unthanksgiving Day

⚡ Visit Alcatraz
During Unthanksgiving Day, a visit to Alcatraz Island offers an opportunity to be part of a large gathering of individuals coming together to reflect on the tragic loss of indigenous peoples and also engage in celebratory activities.

⚡ Support their voices
An effective way to honor this day is by advocating for and respecting the voices and rights of indigenous peoples. Additionally, offering assistance in any possible manner is greatly appreciated.

⚡ Spread awareness
A significant number of individuals lack awareness of the deep emotional anguish experienced by indigenous communities, a pain that is difficult to express through words alone. This occasion serves as an opportunity to enhance people’s understanding of the historical background and immense suffering endured by these communities.

📅 When is Unthanksgiving Day?

Discover all 🔗 November holidays, including 🔗 Special Interest and other 🔗 Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about Unthanksgiving Day. So be sure to check back soon.