On Thursday morning, as thousands of people around NYC gathered to partake in the 97th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a small protest occured to disrupt the parade demands. About thirty demonstrators disregarded the barricades of the parade and glued themselves to the street.
The protesters belonged to an organization called Seven Circles Alliance, and reportedly had various words [including “capitalism,” “racism” and “consumerism”] written across their white jumpsuits. They were also covered in a red liquid. The disruption was kept to a minimum time wise as police officers quickly arrested the protestors and the parade continued.
The organization shouted demands such as “liberation” for Palestine and action on climate, despite being staunchly against the idea of celebrating Thanksgiving itself. Posters were displayed during the protest calling out the celebration of colonialism which surrounded Thanksgiving day.
“We invite people to join our direct action, to recognize the hypocrisy of celebration alongside oppression and ecological destruction,” wrote the Seven Circles Alliance.
Grown children and adults alike were likely shocked to see a display of such dissent during what is usually a fun and festive event. After the parade continued, many were heard shouting “boo” in response.
Despite Seven Circles Alliance’s stance on the celebration of Thanksgiving Day, millions of others in the world still embrace the day of gratitude towards all that they have. For them, the parade serves as a reminder that the little things in life matter.
“Thanksgiving for me is an appreciation for what I have because so many don’t. It’s about being grateful for my health, my friends, my family and all the wonderful memories we can create and reflect upon together,” said Macy’s Parade representative, Orlando Veras.
"They are glued!" – Protesters SHUT DOWN Macy's Parade route by GLUING THEMSELVES to the ground, demanding "Liberation for Palestine and Climate" as crowds shout "Booooo!" – ARRESTED #Thanksgiving #MacysParade
Video by Ken Lopez [email protected] to license pic.twitter.com/QlKUfq9F8A
— Oliya Scootercaster ???? (@ScooterCasterNY) November 23, 2023
The parade served as a special reminder of the joys of the season for many families. For them, the parade was an opportunity to celebrate something that transcends religious or political beliefs during an otherwise tumultuous year. Despite Seven Circles Alliance’s dissent, the parade was a comfort to many in need of some holiday cheer.