Thanksgiving: an enduring immigrant tradition

On November 16th, MIRA continued the tradition of celebrating the immigrant family at it's 7th Annual Thanksgiving Luncheon. Thanksgiving first began when a group of some of the first immigrant settlers in America celebrated their harvest and the generosity of the native peoples. History since that idealized episode has been fraught with tensions between nativists and immigrants who believe in the the American Dream. But time and time again, as families gather around the table at the end of Fall, we remember the opportunities and rights this country promises its citizens. We also remember those who have joined our American family simply through a desire to succeed and be free, and whose inclusion was not based on race, ethnicity, origin or even heritage.

MIRA’s annual Thanksgiving Luncheon recalls that promise to newcomers in our midst who continue to expand America’s economic pie, enrich communities, and enliven our democracy. Represented by over 300 MIRA members, advocates, policymakers, religious leaders and service providers, the luncheon demonstrated the cultivation of a new life in this abundant land and the renewal of the American promise as a place of opportunity, justice, and refuge.

This year’s Thanksgiving Luncheon specially recognized the refugee journey, highlighting the accomplishments of the MAA Coalition of MA and the MA Haitian TPS consortium who have helped settle refugees from many tumultuous corners of the globe. Refugees who are given the resettlement resources and who successfully integrate into our society provide a rich example of the contributions immigrants make to Massachusetts and the nation. Regardless of the circumstances from which families and individuals emigrate, and the barriers they face as newcomers, they share a common destiny as part of America’s future, and common goals to work hard, provide for their families, and contribute to society.

As the nation pauses to celebrate family and recount blessings, let’s remember the immigrant story that began Thanksgiving. We thank immigrants for their determination to survive. We thank immigrants for their entrepreneurial skills and imaginations. We thank immigrants for the businesses and civic spaces they create. We thank immigrants for their wonderful examples of family devotion and sacrifices. We thank immigrants for giving us the thanksgiving spirit.

Gov. Patrick's Speech, courtesy of State House News Service:


Press Clips from the event: Boston Globe, MassLive, State House News