Critical Analysis

Find answers to the following questions using the visual above, any links below, and your hard-won life lessons:

1. Based on the visual above, as of 2022, what portion of Americans agree that Thanksgiving celebrations are not the time or place to discuss politics with family?

2. Do you think that Thanksgiving celebrations are the time or place to discuss politics with family?

3. The overwhelming majority of Americans say they don't want to talk politics at the Thanksgiving table, according to the Axios-Ipsos Two Americas Index, but: 41% of Democrats and 29% of Republicans said they'll probably do it anyway. How do you explain the difference in opinion based on party affiliation?

4. "Arguing about politics may be Americans' least favorite Thanksgiving activity, but it may actually serve an important function in our body politic," said Cliff Young, Ipsos' president of U.S. Public Affairs. "People who engage in these kinds of discussions across the aisle are more likely to accept the legitimacy of elections. "Whether or not you think that Thanksgiving celebrations are the time or place to discuss politics with family, do you think your family will discuss politics at Thanksgiving?

5. According to the data from the visual below, an increasing number of Americans say that talking about politics with people they disagree with is generally stressful and frustrating. What explains that change?

6. Do you find that talking about politics with people you disagree with is generally more stressful and frustrating, or interesting and informative?

7. America has become a bit of an echo chamber and I am rarely in a situation where people around me are expressing an opposing view politics in general. When was the last time you were in a position where those around you were expression an opposing view of politics?

8. This Thanksgiving, are you likely to be in a position where those around you are expressing an opposing view of politics and if so, what do you plan to do?

9. The tradition of presidents pardoning turkeys is traditionally thought to have started in the Truman era, though the Harry S. Truman Library & Museum has reported "no documents, speeches, newspaper clippings, photographs, or other contemporary records in our holdings which refer to Truman pardoning a turkey that he received as a gift in 1947, or at any other time during his Presidency." The White House Historical Association reports that it actually began much later, with President George H.W. Bush. Whenever the tradition started, have you ever lost a friend/turkey over a disagreement about politics?

10. In 2021 President Biden pardoned two turkeys named Peanut Butter and Jelly for Thanksgiving (see video below*). Article II, section 2 of the Constitution allows the president the power to, "grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment." The next year’s turkeys were pardoned on November 21, 2022 and were from the great and very purple swing state of North Carolina. Do you think the origin of these turkeys was a coincidence?

Write and Discuss

Take ten minutes to write about the question at the top of the page and then discuss with your classmates.

Act on your Learning

Make a plan for what you’ve going to say about politics this Thanksgiving. Share your plan with your classmates and be prepared to report on Thanksgiving politics after the big event.

Get Creative

AI gives the following instructions for making a toast. Make a toast to say at Thanksgiving about something you are thankful for. Then give it.

How to Give a Toast

Preparation:

• Choose the Right Moment: Typically, toasts are given at celebratory events like weddings, graduations, or retirement parties. The host or a designated person will usually initiate the toast.

• Identify the Subject: The subject of your toast is usually the person or people being honored.

• Keep it Brief: A toast should be short and sweet, typically lasting only a few minutes. Aim for a concise message that is easy to listen to.

• Write it Down: While you don't want to read directly from a script, jotting down your thoughts can help you organize your ideas and ensure you don't forget anything important.

• Practice: Practicing your toast beforehand can help you feel more confident and deliver it smoothly.

Delivery:

• Stand Up: When it's your turn to give the toast, stand up to address the group.

• Get Everyone's Attention: Politely ask for everyone's attention before you begin.

• Introduce Yourself (If Necessary): If you're not well-known to everyone present, briefly introduce yourself and explain your connection to the subject of the toast.

• Raise Your Glass: Hold your glass at waist level.

• Speak Clearly and Slowly: Project your voice so that everyone can hear you, and speak at a pace that is easy to follow.

• Share a Story or Memory: If appropriate, share a brief anecdote or memory about the subject of the toast. This can add a personal touch and make your toast more engaging.

• Offer Your Wishes or Congratulations: Express your well wishes, congratulations, or gratitude to the subject of the toast.

• Keep it Positive: Avoid negative or embarrassing stories. This is a celebration, so keep the tone upbeat and positive.

• Use Humor (If Appropriate): A little humor can be a great way to lighten the mood and make your toast more enjoyable. However, avoid offensive or inappropriate jokes.

• End with a Toast: Conclude your toast with a simple phrase like "Cheers," "To the happy couple," or "To a bright future."

• Take a Sip: After everyone else has raised their glasses, take a sip of your drink.

Remember:

• Be Sincere: A heartfelt toast is always appreciated. Speak from the heart and let your genuine feelings shine through.

• Be Respectful: Be mindful of the occasion and the audience. Avoid saying anything that could be offensive or inappropriate like, “Everybody shake your booty!”

• Enjoy the Moment: Giving a toast is an honor. Relax, have fun, and celebrate the occasion.

Example of a Toast:

"Good evening, everyone. I'm so honored to be here today to celebrate [subject's name] and this special occasion. [Share a brief story or memory]. [Subject's name], I wish you all the best in the years to come. Cheers!"

Learning Extension

Here is a guide to having a constructive political conversation at Thanksgiving

Last year President Biden pardoned to turkeys named Peanut Butter and Jelly for Thanksgiving. Here’s the video.