Turkey and Tamales: People Of Color Share Their Multicultural Thanksgiving Traditions

For many families of color in the U.S., Thanksgiving is more than turkey and stuffing—it’s a fusion of cultural traditions. Across the country, immigrant and second-generation Americans incorporate dishes from their heritage alongside classic American staples, creating vibrant and diverse Thanksgiving feasts.

For Brenda Abdelall, a 37-year-old Egyptian-American, Thanksgiving includes kofta and green beans with pomegranate molasses, honoring her Middle Eastern roots. Similarly, Filipino-American PJ Policarpio’s Thanksgiving features lumpia, pancit, and leche flan alongside the traditional turkey.

Juan Diego Ramirez, originally from Oaxaca, Mexico, remembers his family celebrating with roasted chicken, tamales, and salsa, later adopting turkey from local giveaways. Korean-American Robin Ha brings Korean fried chicken to the table, while Rwandan-American Carine Umuhumuza’s feast includes cassava dishes and peanut sauce.

For many, Thanksgiving represents a unique blend of American and cultural traditions—a time to honor heritage while embracing new customs. As Umuhumuza notes, the holiday resonates because “families of all generations and ages coming together” is universal.

The result is a joyful mashup of flavors and traditions that reflects the richness of multicultural America, making Thanksgiving a uniquely meaningful celebration.

Source: NPR