As Thanksgiving break approaches, Benilde-St. Margaret’s students are gearing up for a much-needed pause from classes, homework, and tests. Whether it’s a family dinner filled with special traditions, celebrating with friends, or a quiet weekend of rest, every student seems to have their own idea of what Thanksgiving looks like.
For many families, Thanksgiving revolves around eating and being around family. This is the case for Chizy Jibunor, a senior at BSM. For him, Thanksgiving is about the familiar traditions he shares with his family. “I go to my cousins’ house, where a lot of my family is. We socialize, eat food, and have fun for the night,” Jibunor said.
For others, traveling for Thanksgiving is the norm. Many travel to see family or friends. Cameron Lee, a senior at BSM, is traveling this Thanksgiving. He enjoys spending time with his family and especially seeing family he hasn’t seen in a long time. “I’m going to Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, to see my extended family,” Lee said.
Being around family and friends is an important part of Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful for people who give an endless amount of support. Thanksgiving allows many to be able to spend that time with family and friends. Lee mentions that his favorite part of Thanksgiving is seeing his cousins. He also touches on what he and his family do on Thanksgiving. “My favorite part is being with my cousins because we only see each other about once every one or two years. We usually eat, play football, and hang out,” Lee said.
Black Friday shopping is common for many after Thanksgiving, as a time when many families get holiday shopping out of the way while taking advantage of the hundreds of sales. However, not everyone chooses to participate. This is the case for Jibunor, who says he has no plans for after Thanksgiving. “ I don’t have any plans for after Thanksgiving. I’m not in particular need of any Black Friday shopping,” Jibunor said.
Despite Black Friday shopping and Friendsgivings being common after Thanksgiving, it is not what everyone does. Families may have their own traditions that are important to them. For Lee, this looks like hanging out with friends, but not for a Friendsgiving; rather the Hmong New Year. The Hmong New Year is a cultural festival that celebrates the end of harvest and a new beginning. “After Thanksgiving, I might be going to a Hmong New Year… It’s pretty interesting.” Lee said.