Americans that study Thanksgiving understand the essential and invaluable role Native Americans played in the survival of the Plymouth Colony.  Through the Wampanoag's generosity and compassion for the Pilgrims, Plymouth colony was able to make it through that first winter from 1620-1621.  Below are just a few of the contributions from this tribe:

1) Helping to share and cultivate crops, specifically plants native to America (Three Sisters - corn, beans, and squash)

2) Sharing knowledge of local hunting grounds and fishing spots

3) Identifying edible plants and berries, as well as medicinal herbs

4) Establishing an alliance and peace treaty between the Pilgrims and Wampanoag, which helped to protect Pilgrims 

5) Interpreting between local tribes through the help of Squanto, which allowed the Pilgrims to establish trade relations

Thanksgiving was celebrated in the autumn of 1621 after a bountiful harvest due to the guidance and wisdom of Squanto.  Pilgrims themselves called Squanto "a special instrument sent of God for their good beyond their expectation".  Yet, this crucial aspect of history is often overlooked and sometimes omitted surrounding the Thanksgiving holiday.

Holiday World (America's first amusement park located in beautiful Santa Claus, IN) is renowned for its themed sections showcasing various holidays, including Christmas, Halloween, 4th of July, and...Thanksgiving.  Each division features rides, live entertainment, and games that capture the spirit of the respective holiday. 

My family travels here once a year and thoroughly enjoys the Thanksgiving part of the park the most, with rides such as Good Gravy, Mayflower, Turkey Whirl, Gobbler Getaway, and Thunderbird.  We also enjoy cooling down in Plymouth Rock Cafe as we devour our Turkey Bowl and Pulled Pork. Unfortunately, there is nothing devoted to the importance of the Native Americans.  

By dedicating a ride and exhibit specifically to the contributions and history of Native Americans during the Thanksgiving era, the park can help visitors understand and enjoy a richer understanding of our shared history - by fostering education through entertainment.  Holiday World truly has an opportunity to give a proper "thanks" to the people that made this country possible.

Native Americans were instrumental not only in teaching the Pilgrims essential survival skills but also in establishing the foundations for cooperation and harmony among diverse populations. A dedicated ride and exhibit can help portray these stories, allowing visitors to appreciate the resilience, creativity, and pivotal contributions of Native Americans during the founding moments of this nation.

This initiative would reflect positively on Holiday World and set a commendable precedent for acknowledging truth and appreciation for all. It would also serve as a respectful tribute to the Native American communities who continue to shape our nation.  

As an Indiana native, I have always been proud to include Holiday World as part of our prized culture here in this state.  Many residents of this state and citizens of our country will be even more proud when this next piece is included in a future addition to the park.

Please join me in urging Holiday World to take this essential step towards a more accurate telling of our history. Let's encourage them to create a ride and exhibit dedicated to the significance of Native Americans in Thanksgiving history. Sign this petition to celebrate Native Americans at Holiday World.