Blog Post Written by Valerie Seguin

Dania Beach, FL – As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a wonderful opportunity for us, especially in a diverse community filled with international students, to learn about and embrace one of the most cherished American traditions. Thanksgiving goes beyond turkey dinners and football games; it’s a celebration of gratitude, togetherness, and reflection. At UIC, where we believe in holistic education, participating in Thanksgiving traditions can be a meaningful way to connect with these values.

The Roots of Thanksgiving: A Journey of Unity and Gratitude

Thanksgiving traces its origins back to the early 17th century, when Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people gathered in Plymouth, Massachusetts, to share a meal in celebration of a successful harvest. This momentous event was not only about food but also about unity and collaboration. The Pilgrims, having endured a difficult winter, were aided by the Wampanoag, who taught them essential agricultural practices that helped ensure their survival. The gathering symbolized mutual respect, gratitude, and a collective hope for a better future.

Over the years, Thanksgiving transformed into a national holiday, commemorated by families and communities across the United States. It came to symbolize unity, resilience, and an appreciation for life’s blessings—whether small moments of kindness, shared meals, or the company of loved ones. Today, Thanksgiving continues to be a day where people pause to reflect, express gratitude, and connect with family and friends, honoring a tradition rooted in compassion and collaboration.

At UIC, we aim to celebrate Thanksgiving as a meaningful opportunity to foster gratitude and embrace the diverse backgrounds within our community, uniting us in a spirit of togetherness and appreciation.

Thanksgiving and Holistic Education: Lessons in Gratitude

At UIC, we’re encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally—a concept known as holistic education. Embracing Thanksgiving offers a unique chance to reflect on gratitude and appreciate the support systems and experiences that shape us. Whether through a simple meal with friends, a moment of quiet reflection, or even volunteering, there are many ways to celebrate this season and connect with its underlying messages of compassion and generosity.

Share Your Gratitude with #ThanksTogetherUIC

Thanksgiving is a time to connect, reflect, and express gratitude! This year, we want to hear from YOU. What are you thankful for? Whether it’s a friend who’s been by your side, an achievement that made you proud, or a moment of kindness that lifted your spirits, share it with us!

Post a message, photo, or video sharing what you’re grateful for, and use #ThanksTogetherUIC to join our gratitude circle. We’ll be featuring some of the most inspiring posts in our December newsletter, so let your story shine!

Let’s fill our feeds with appreciation, unity, and inspiration, showing just how much we have to be thankful for together.

Celebrate with Us at the UIC Thanksgiving Party!

Join us on Thursday, November 21st, for a special Thanksgiving celebration at the college! The event will begin with a screening of the documentary United in Diversity: Voices of UIC International Students at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Q&A session and a Thanksgiving celebration. This is a great opportunity to come together, share in the spirit of gratitude, and learn about diverse experiences within our UIC community. We hope to see you there! Let’s make this Thanksgiving a memorable one together!

Thanksgiving is more than a single day; it’s a reminder to carry gratitude throughout the year. We hope you’ll join us in embracing this tradition, making it a time to reflect, connect, and appreciate the people and experiences that make life meaningful. Happy Thanksgiving to our entire UIC community!