FDR Showed Us How to Discuss Politics at Thanksgiving

TL/DR –

The article highlights how Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the 32nd president of the United States, used his Thanksgiving proclamations to address societal tensions and promote unity, often through references to economic turmoil and rising fascism. He also encouraged liberal idealism and cooperation, and used the proclamations as teaching tools about religious diversity and racial and ethnic divisions. Roosevelt’s Thanksgiving proclamations were unique in promoting a vision for the country to respond to challenges as a united citizenry rather than as isolated individuals.

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Politics | November 23, 2023

The 32nd president used his holiday proclamations to call for “the establishment on earth of freedom, brotherhood, and justice.”

Thanksgiving 1933. (Bettmann / Corbis / Bettmann Archive)

Robert Reich’s advice for holiday gatherings with family members and friends who may not be aligned ideologically: Talk politics – but do it smartly.

Reich suggests approaching political discussions with the aim of identifying common goals and areas of agreement, rather than launching into partisan arguments.

As we enter a holiday season marked by heightened tensions in America due to economic inequality and systemic injustice, Reich’s counsel becomes particularly relevant. This is especially so when instances of hate crimes and divisive rhetoric seem to be on the rise.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the 32nd president, had a similar approach. He used his Thanksgiving proclamations as a platform to promote liberal idealism and cooperation, particularly in the face of economic turbulence and rising fascism.

For instance, Roosevelt’s 1941 Thanksgiving Day proclamation called for “the establishment on earth of freedom, brotherhood, and justice.” His proclamations also consistently emphasized the need to develop a new economic order.

As we approach this year’s holiday season, let’s take Robert Reich’s advice—and let’s have another helping of FDR’s wisdom.

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