As Thanksgiving approaches, students at Danbury High School reflect on their traditions and what they’re most thankful for. From large family gatherings to unique cultural foods, this year’s celebrations highlight both shared values and personal touches.
For many DHS students, Thanksgiving symbolizes a time to reflect, connect, and celebrate with loved ones. Whether through traditional dishes, family reunions, or memorable mishaps, DHS students express deep gratitude for the opportunities and relationships that have shaped their year. Their traditions often blend American customs with cultural elements, creating celebrations that reflect their identities.
Gratitude In Every Form
Junior Dorys Yambay, who identifies as Ecuadorian, has had opportunities to travel and make an impact through her experiences speaking to young leaders and state representatives. “[She’s] thankful to [have] an audience where [she] can convey a good message,” she said, reflecting on how these experiences have shaped her perspective. Sophomore Jake Lliguicota, also Ecuadorian, values the connections he’s made throughout his life. “Every person gives me a different perspective, and I appreciate that,” he shared.
For others, Thanksgiving offers a chance to appreciate what they often take for granted. Sophomore Autumn Johnson, originally from New York, explained how, “[she’s] grateful for the opportunity of another year to learn, as those chances aren’t granted to everyone.” Similarly, Janice Reyes, an American Ecuadorian, expressed gratitude for her family and the blessings of the year.
Traditions that Unite
Many students’ Thanksgiving celebrations incorporate cultural elements. Lliguicota’s family includes Ecuadorian foods like mote, a giant white corn, and cuy (guinea pig), alongside traditional American dishes. Valentina Rodrigues, a freshman who recently moved to Danbury from NYC, shared her excitement about her family’s tradition of preparing chaulafan, empanadas, and other Ecuadorian favorites.
For Shadae Mickell, a junior, Thanksgiving traditions blend family bonding and experimentation. Her African American family enjoys turkey and macaroni while also, “experimenting with different foods no one has ever tried before, especially pies.” The chaos of family gatherings often leads to mishaps, like Lliguicota spilling soup on himself during a game or Rodrigues’s family resorting to a barbecue on their balcony when the turkey wasn’t prepared in time.
Meaningful Moments
Thanksgiving traditions often emphasize reflection. Reyes’ family forms a circle before dinner to share what they’re most thankful for, while Johnson’s family discusses their goals for the coming year. Yambay finds meaning in spending time with family, acknowledging how “good one has it.” Lliguicota highlights the fun of playing games like Mario Kart and Monopoly with cousins, while Rodrigues looks forward to her family’s annual trip to see the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
From bustling tickets to heartfelt conversations, DHS students demonstrate that Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday. It’s a time to celebrate cultural heritage, reconnect with loved ones, and reflect on the blessings of life. As Rodrigues put it, “Thanksgiving is about spending time with family and friends, reflecting on all the good things we’ve been blessed with.” As we celebrate this Thanksgiving, may it be filled with warmth, gratitude, and memorable moments that we carry into the year ahead. Happy Thanksgiving, Hatters!
