As Thanksgiving messages filled the air this holiday season, Hon. Solomon Weawea, Executive Director of the Liberia National Heritage and Cultural Development Association (LNHCDA), offered a thought-provoking reflection on the deeper meaning — and controversy—surrounding the day.
In a recent statement, Hon. Weawea said that while Thanksgiving is widely celebrated as a day of gratitude, its interpretation varies across cultures and continents. He emphasized the importance of understanding these differences to truly appreciate the spirit of the occasion.
“For many Christians around the world, Thanksgiving is a time to express thanks to God for salvation and blessings,” Weawea explained. “But the American version of Thanksgiving carries its own historical weight—it is a commemoration of a pivotal moment in history.”
He recalled that the United States celebrates Thanksgiving to remember the period when European settlers and Native Americans shared a meal, symbolizing peace and cooperation after a time of hardship. “It marks a moment when the settlers and the indigenous people came together to share a meal—traditionally turkey as a sign of goodwill,” he said.
However, Hon. Weawea noted that beneath the celebration lies a complex history that continues to spark reflection and debate. What began as a gesture of unity, he said, also raises questions about the legacy of colonization and cultural representation in historical narratives.
Turning to the Liberian context, Weawea pointed out that Thanksgiving holds a different meaning. Liberia, one of the few African countries to officially observe the holiday, has been reassessing its significance in recent years.
“In Liberia, some are questioning whether Thanksgiving should remain a national holiday, given its distinct historical and cultural origins,” he said. “We must be conscious of how the tradition is perceived and understood in different contexts.”
Despite the debate, Weawea concluded on a note of unity and appreciation. He extended a “belated Happy Thanksgiving” to Liberians everywhere, reminding citizens that beyond cultural differences, “Liberia is our shared heritage.”
Weawea’s reflections, coming amid global conversations about history, culture, and national identity, invite Liberians to view Thanksgiving not just as a borrowed tradition but as an opportunity for gratitude, understanding, and national reflection.
