Avoid the Holiday Awkwardness

Thanksgiving celebrations are a common occurrence in Nigeria, usually taking place in churches and homes across the country. In many Nigerian homes, Thanksgiving is an opportunity for family members to come together and express gratitude for the blessings they have received throughout the year. It is often marked by the preparation of traditional dishes such as jollof rice, fried rice, and chicken or beef stew. These dishes are prepared in large quantities and shared among family members and guests who attend the celebration. In some instances, families may also choose to have a potluck-style Thanksgiving, where each family member brings a dish to share with the rest of the family.

For many Nigerians, Thanksgiving is also an occasion to attend church and participate in a thanksgiving service. Churches are often decorated with colorful banners and balloons, and the service is usually marked by singing, dancing, and praying. During the service, members of the congregation are given an opportunity to give thanks for the blessings they have received in the past year. Following the church service, families may choose to continue their celebrations with a party. These parties can range from small gatherings in homes to larger outdoor events. They may feature music, dance, and games, and are often an opportunity for families to bond and have fun together.

Navigating cultural differences can be a delicate balance, particularly when it comes to celebrating holidays and traditions that may not align with one’s personal beliefs or cultural background. As an African living in the North America diaspora, you may find yourself struggling with the idea of participating in holidays or celebrations that don't necessarily resonate with your personal values, culture or and heritage.

Cultural sensitivity refers to the ability to understand, appreciate, and respect different cultures and their customs. In North America, Thanksgiving is a widely celebrated holiday that is deeply rooted in American history and culture. For some Africans in the diaspora, the holiday may not hold the same significance or traditions. However, there are ways for Africans in the North America diaspora to find a balance that is culturally sensitive.

One approach to this challenge is to consider incorporating elements of your own cultural traditions into the holiday. For example, you might prepare traditional African dishes to share with others or incorporate African-inspired decorations into your home or workplace. This can be a way to honor your own heritage while also participating in the larger community celebration.

At the same time, it's important to be respectful of others' beliefs and traditions, even if they differ from your own. If you choose not to participate in a particular celebration, it's important to do so in a way that doesn't come across as dismissive or disrespectful. One way to approach this might be to simply explain that the holiday doesn't hold personal significance for you, but that you're still happy to participate in other ways.

““onye wetere oji, wetere ndu- “he who brings kola, brings life”

— Igbo Proverb

In the workplace or social gatherings, it's important to be mindful of cultural sensitivities and to read the room before engaging in conversations related to holidays or traditions. If you sense that someone is uncomfortable or not interested in a particular topic, it's best to steer the conversation in a different direction.

Navigating cultural differences requires a balance of respecting others while also honoring your own heritage and beliefs. We can all make an effort to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where all individuals can feel valued and appreciated, regardless of their cultural background or traditions.

To handle Thanksgiving without offending your host or host country’s traditions, here are seven tips:

Educate yourself on the history of Thanksgiving and its impact on indigenous communities.
Offer to bring a dish that reflects your culture and traditions to the Thanksgiving dinner and a nice touch is give a gift like their favorite wine or pastry..
Respectfully decline any dishes that do not align with your dietary restrictions or beliefs.
Engage in open and honest communication with your host about your boundaries and expectations for the holiday.
Take time to connect with other members of the diaspora and create your own Thanksgiving traditions.
Participate in community service or volunteer work to give back during the holiday season.
Above all, approach Thanksgiving with an open mind and heart, and seek to learn and appreciate the diverse cultures and traditions of those around you.

Attending a North American Thanksgiving dinner as an African in the diaspora can be a bit daunting. You want to look good, but you also want to be comfortable and not feel out of place. The anxiety and frustration around what to wear can be overwhelming, but fear not.

There is no right or wrong way to dress for Thanksgiving. The most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing. Don't be afraid to add a pop of color or pattern if that's your style. At the end of the day, Thanksgiving is all about spending time with loved ones and being grateful, so enjoy yourself and have fun with your outfit!

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