Every year on the last Thursday in November, Americans celebrate one of the main national holidays.
On the eve of the U.S. national holiday – Thanksgiving, the White House issued a congratulatory message from U.S. President Joe Biden, which emphasizes the deep tradition of this holiday and its impact on the American way of life.
“Thanksgiving gives us time to reflect on our many blessings – from God, from this country, and from each other. We are grateful for these blessings even – and especially – in times of trial,” Joe Biden said. – That’s why George Washington announced the celebration of Thanksgiving to his troops during the harsh winter in Valley Forge (military camp of the Continental Army in 1777-1778). That is why in the midst of the Civil War-proclaiming the Thanksgiving holiday that we celebrate today-Abraham Lincoln urged us to remember our “fertile fields and strengthening heavens. Just as 400 years ago, when the pilgrims were able to celebrate a successful first harvest thanks to the generosity and support of the Wampanoag (Indian tribe), today we also express our gratitude to those who helped us through this difficult last year.”
The U.S. President expressed his deep gratitude to doctors, teachers, agricultural workers, and, of course, American servicemen – all those who did and continue to do the work necessary for the country in the difficult conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Biden stressed that for him and for his family, Thanksgiving was and remains one of the most expensive and important family holidays. However, the head of the White House added, “for many Americans, this Thanksgiving will be the first meeting with loved ones in person since the beginning of the pandemic – a time of full tables and full hearts.”
“As we celebrate this holiday, we will also be thinking about the many families experiencing pain from the sight of an unoccupied chair at the Thanksgiving table. You are not alone and our country is with you..,” President Biden said. “I call on the people of the United States of America to unite and thank friends, neighbors, family members, and strangers who have supported each other over the past year as a sign of goodwill and unity.”
According to the latest data from the international research company Ipsos, two-thirds (67%) of Americans plan to see their family members or friends outside their homes on Thanksgiving. This indicator does not depend on the vaccination status of the surveyed U.S. residents.
