The minority of Morton East students will celebrate Thanksgiving with cultural feasts.

In a random survey of 137 students at Morton East, only 26% (36 students) said they will have a traditional dish that represents their culture this Thanksgiving.  Of the 137 students polled, 125 of them told us what kind of Hispanics they were.  We had 111 Mexicans, 5 Puerto Ricans, 3 Salvadorans, 1 Guatemalan, 3 Hondurans, 1 Ecuadorian, and 1 Peruvian reporting out.  That gives you an idea of the cultures represented here at Morton East.

According to ChatGPT, Thanksgiving celebrations in the Hispanic world may vary, as the holiday is traditionally an American observance. However, some Hispanic families in the United States may blend their cultural traditions with Thanksgiving festivities. Here are some facts about why people might incorporate cultural foods from the Hispanic world into their Thanksgiving celebrations:

Cultural Fusion: Many Hispanic families in the United States have a rich cultural heritage, and Thanksgiving provides an opportunity to blend traditional American customs with their own cultural practices. This fusion is reflected in the types of foods served during the holiday.

Family and Togetherness: Thanksgiving, with its emphasis on family and togetherness, resonates with Hispanic values. Sharing a meal becomes a way to express love and appreciation for family and friends.

Traditional Hispanic Dishes: Some families include traditional Hispanic dishes alongside or instead of the typical Thanksgiving fare. This might include dishes like tamales, arroz con pollo (rice with chicken), empanadas, or mole (a rich, flavorful sauce).

Flavorful Ingredients: Hispanic cuisine is known for its bold and diverse flavors. Ingredients such as cilantro, cumin, chili peppers, and various spices can add a unique twist to Thanksgiving dishes.

Tropical Fruits: In some Hispanic households, you might find tropical fruits like plantains, mangoes, or pineapples incorporated into Thanksgiving recipes, adding a burst of freshness and color to the meal.

Out of the 137 students at Morton East, 7 will eat pozole on Thanksgiving.

“My family and I eat turkey and pozole for Thanksgiving dinner,” Morton East student Mia Briseno said.

Some other students said they will eat a different traditional meal.

“In Thanksgiving, we eat Platano Frito, tortillas de harina’s with frijoles and more,” Morton East student Jardel Manzanares said.