Mayor McLean's Thanksgiving Message

November 25, 2020

It has been four hundred years since a small group of refugees fled persecution, left the home they knew and came to America in search of a better life. They traveled like many immigrants with a desire for a better tomorrow, a work ethic, and a need for community.  

Their journey was rough. The landscape this small group found was unforgiving, and their survival would have been impossible if not for the Native Wampanoag's friendly embrace. The indigenous people graciously offered lessons in agriculture and welcomed these new Americans into the area, helping them through the winter and to a successful first harvest.  

The Pilgrims were grateful they landed in a welcoming community and for the generosity of the Wampanoag people. They knew they would not have survived their first year without their help. It was only through working together that they survived, and together they celebrated the new partnership with a festival of giving thanks. That festival is now known as the first Thanksgiving.   

During the civil war, President Abraham Lincoln spoke of one nation and one heart; even as our country was tearing itself apart, he knew that the bond we shared as Americans was stronger than hate. 

This Thanksgiving is also unique. The pandemic’s cost to our health and livelihoods has put a strain on each of us and the bonds we share. This year, more than many in recent past, we feel a deeper need to pause, to give thanks. And when we most need it, the ritual of coming together with family and dear friends to reflect on the graces amidst the difficulties of this year isn’t possible.  

I’m particularly grateful for each of you who have recognized the bonds we share within this community. You’ve sacrificed for the health and prosperity of others, often those you don’t even know.  

I’m grateful for our frontline workers, healthcare providers, and heroes of all types who put their health and lives on the line for each of us.  

I’m grateful for our essential workers.  

I'm incredibly grateful that we found Boise so many years ago and built a family in this community made richer by so many of you. 

In the coming days, may we each pause and give thanks for the grace and kindness in our lives, the sacrifices others have made for us, and this special place – and her people - that we call home. It’s my hope that these thanks – our Thanksgiving - help sustain each of us in the weeks and months to come so that we have the strength, conviction, and grace to combat the challenges of this year, together.

Contact: Mayor's Office Media Relations

(208) 972-8520 | info@cityofboise.org

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