Tag

Erasure

All articles tagged with #erasure

culture2 years ago

Unmasking Thanksgiving: Honoring Indigenous Resistance and Reclaiming History

Indigenous scholars and activists are highlighting the erasure of Native American history in the traditional Thanksgiving narrative. The story of the pilgrims inviting Native Americans to a feast is a myth, as there was no formal invitation. The true history includes the Wampanoag Tribe's existence long before and after the pilgrims' arrival, as well as the tragic experiences of Indigenous people, such as kidnappings and disease. Indigenous activists are advocating for the recognition of their true history and suggest changing the language around Thanksgiving, incorporating indigenous foods, and supporting local action events to honor and learn from Indigenous peoples.

history2 years ago

Uncovering the Complex and Black History of Memorial Day in Charleston

Black people in Charleston, SC, may have held the first Memorial Day celebration in 1865, just weeks after the end of the Civil War and the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Thousands of newly freed Black people held a parade and placed flowers on the graves of Union soldiers who had helped liberate them from slavery. However, White Southerners made sure that the day wasn't remembered at all, and the event was forgotten within a few decades. The portrayal of the Civil War and its aftermath was controlled in the South by groups such as the United Daughters of the Confederacy and the Ladies’ Memorial Association, as well as Confederate veterans.