A non-stereotypical thanksgiving celebration - Arts Update - Brief Article

Arts & Activities, Nov, 2001

Most of us realize that the mainstream Thanksgiving celebration can often be rife with stereotypes. The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art offers some suggestions for having a Thanksgiving that doesn't reinforce stereotypes, including: (1) Do not dress children in feathered headdresses and call them "Indians"; (2) Teach children that harvest celebrations and times of thanksgiving have gone on for thousands of years; (3) Talk with students about food they enjoy at special times, and the traditions of family recipes; and (4) Encourage students to share the history of their family and early ancestors.

To receive the full suggestions that are only briefly described above, please e-mall Cindy Dashnaw at cdashnaw@eiteljorg.com.