As Milwaukeeans gather for Thanksgiving, they do so in the wake of a turbulent presidential election season. This year’s holiday arrives less than a month after a highly contentious vote, leaving many with a mixture of hope and trepidation as they look toward the new year.
The holiday, rooted deeply in American tradition, has always been a time for family and reflection. Yet, as families around the city sit down to eat, some may find that carving the turkey is not the only cutting tension at the table.
Thanksgiving is known for its ability to bring people together in the spirit of unity and gratitude. Established officially by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863 amid the Civil War, Thanksgiving was meant to foster national unity.
Its historical roots, however, date back to the early 17th century, when Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a feast in 1621. Though that event may not fully mirror the harmonious celebration we often imagine today, it laid the foundation for a holiday that has persisted, shifting with the times, while maintaining a focus on community.
A TRADITION OF GATHERING AND GIVING BACK
In Milwaukee, Thanksgiving has long been more than just a feast day. It is a time when people come together across the city to give back to those in need, with food drives, charity dinners, and community events taking place in every neighborhood.
Organizations like the Hunger Task Force and local shelters have made sure that everyone in Milwaukee can enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal, regardless of their circumstances. Volunteers from all walks of life gather in churches, schools, and community centers to assemble meals for those less fortunate.
During the Great Depression, Milwaukeeans came together to provide food to families hit hard by economic hardship. The city was hit especially hard in 1933, yet citizens pooled resources to share a communal feast.
Local traditions, like Schuster’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, was a city tradition from 1927 to 1961, drawing crowds from across Milwaukee to enjoy marching bands, vibrant floats, and Santa’s arrival, signaling the holiday season’s start.
Likewise, during World War II, Milwaukee’s Thanksgiving took on a somber tone as residents grappled with the absence of loved ones stationed abroad. Local families often opened their doors to soldiers stationed nearby, making sure that anyone in uniform felt like family during the holiday.
The “Turkey Trot” has also been a beloved Milwaukee tradition, with residents coming together for a festive run or walk, raising money for local causes. Today, events like the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival keep the city’s festive spirit alive throughout the holidays.
2024: THANKSGIVING IN A DIVIDED AMERICA
While previous years celebrated Milwaukee’s unbreakable sense of togetherness, Thanksgiving this year comes on the heels of a divisive presidential election, which has stirred strong emotions in households across the nation, especially in Milwaukee. With discussions around the table often turning to politics, many families are apprehensive about the potential for heated disagreements during a holiday that has been a time of unity.
A 2023 survey found more than 60% of Americans expressed a desire to avoid discussing politics at their Thanksgiving gatherings. Yet, despite the caution, the shadow of the election looms large over this holiday season. Some families are setting “ground rules” to avoid political debates, while others are focusing on shared memories and traditions to steer the conversation back to common ground.
Recent news reports continue to highlight the depth of the divide felt by many, particularly after a campaign season marked by fervent advocacy and often starkly different visions for the nation’s future.
The aftermath of this election has left Milwaukee residents with mixed emotions. Some are optimistic about potential changes on the horizon, while others fear the impact of these shifts on their lives and communities. As a result, Thanksgiving 2024 is for many a time to reflect on not only what they are thankful for but also on the need for civil discourse and understanding in an increasingly polarized society.
Amid the uncertainty, Milwaukee residents are finding comfort in traditional Thanksgiving customs, like cooking from classic family recipes passed down for generations. Thanksgiving food has had a rich history tied to the city’s cultural heritage. The dishes on the table reflect Milwaukee’s melting pot, with Polish sausage, German potato salad, and Italian pasta sometimes nestled alongside the more traditional turkey and stuffing. These diverse meals were at one time a reflection of Milwaukee’s legacy as a home for immigrant communities.
HOPES AND FEARS FOR 2025
As Milwaukeeans give thanks this year, many are also looking ahead with apprehension. The new president-elect has promised sweeping changes in various sectors, from healthcare to education to climate policy. For many, the uncertainty and potential impacts on jobs, taxes, and local industries stir a lingering anxiety.
For some Milwaukee families, this Thanksgiving will be challenging, but also a chance to rise above political divides and appreciate the blessings that remain. At the end of the day, Milwaukeeans share common ground in their love for their city and commitment to their neighbors.
© Photo
Aarti Kalyani and Drazen Zigic (via Shutterstock)
