Image from author.
Holidays are meant for family, food, and fun, right? But what about politics? Many believe discussing serious topics like politics during Thanksgiving or Christmas is a bad idea because it could spoil the mood. While I understand that perspective, I think the holidays provide a great opportunity for these discussions.
Consider this–holidays are often the only time the whole family gathers. You have grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins all in one place. That’s not something that happens every day. It’s the perfect moment to address important issues, especially those that might not come up in regular phone calls or texts. It’s a chance to learn from one another, even if opinions differ.
Some people say politics “Kills the mood,” and sure, no one wants to start an argument over mashed potatoes. But does steering clear of it make the holidays more enjoyable? Families are about more than just having a good time– they’re about supporting one another, even when things get tough. Discussing real issues like racism, healthcare, or climate change shows that we care about what’s happening in the world and how it impacts each of us.
Honestly, avoiding politics can be a privilege. For some, politics feels distant– it’s just something they see on the news. But for others, it’s deeply personal. Perhaps someone in your family is struggling with healthcare costs or is stuck in a low-paying job that doesn’t cover rent. Ignoring these issues during the holidays can make it seem like their struggles don’t matter, simply because they’re “too political.” That’s not fair.
I know people often say, “There’s a time and a place for everything,” but when is the right moment to discuss politics? Everyone seems caught up with work, school, or their own lives. The holidays are one of the rare times when people actually take a break and come together. If we wait for the “perfect time,” we might lose the opportunity to engage in these crucial conversations altogether.
Now, I’m not suggesting we should all start shouting about politics as soon as the turkey is served, or when we put the star on top of the tree. It’s really about how we approach the topic. Instead of getting into arguments, we should focus on asking questions and genuinely listening to one another. Even if no one changes their viewpoint, being exposed to different perspectives can help us become more understanding.
The holidays are a time for family connections, and that can sometimes involve discussing tough topics. It might feel a bit uncomfortable, but it’s valuable if it helps us learn from one another and possibly create a positive impact. So this year, if politics comes up, don’t brush it aside– engage with it. The conversations formed during gatherings do not always need to be positive, sometimes they just need to be realistic.
Ava Etemad Rezai is a junior at Washington High School and currently in her second year with The Hatchet. She serves as Co-Editor of the Arts and Entertainment section, Co-Manager of the Social Media team, and is also a member of the school’s podcast, Burying the Hatchet. With a strong passion for pop culture, Ava enjoys exploring how media and the arts connect to student life. Originally from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, Ava moved to Fremont five years ago. At Washington, she is also involved in Leadership as part of the Campus Life Commission, where she helps plan and coordinate school rallies. Beyond school, Ava works as a floor manager at Minicaton, a cat adoption lounge, and over the summer she assisted as a medical assistant at their surgery clinic branch. Inspired by this experience, she hopes to attend veterinary school in the future and eventually open her own practice.