Decades Long Turkey Pardon White House Tradition
OAN’s Katie Smith
3:58 PM – Tuesday, November 21, 2023
It’s that time of year again to be thankful and pardon turkeys. One America’s Katie Smith dives into the history of the White House’s Turkey tradition.
It’s that time of year again to be thankful and pardon turkeys.
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Who officially declared the turkey pardon as a White House event?
The White House’s Turkey Tradition: A Historical Perspective
Every year, as Thanksgiving approaches, the White House carries out a unique and meaningful tradition – the pardon of turkeys. It is a time-honored ritual that allows the president of the United States to spare the lives of two lucky birds, who would have otherwise ended up on the dinner table.
This long-standing tradition dates back to the mid-20th century and has become an iconic symbol of compassion and gratitude. The origins of the turkey pardon can be traced back to the time of President Abraham Lincoln, who is said to have spared the life of a turkey that his son Tad had befriended. However, it wasn’t until the presidency of George H. W. Bush that the tradition became an official White House event.
In 1989, President Bush officially declared that a turkey presented to the White House would be spared from the Thanksgiving feast. This act of mercy was seen as an expression of goodwill and a reminder of the season’s message of gratitude and compassion. Since then, the turkey pardon has become an integral part of the national Thanksgiving celebrations.
Every year, the National Turkey Federation presents the White House with two turkeys, carefully bred and raised for the occasion. The candidates are meticulously selected based on their appearance, temperament, and overall representation of the turkey industry. These turkeys, often given playful names by the White House staff, are then brought to the nation’s capital for the official ceremony.
The event itself is a remarkable blend of tradition and lightheartedness. The president, accompanied by his family and members of the press, stands before a podium and addresses the nation. He shares words of gratitude, reflects on the importance of the Thanksgiving holiday, and shares a few jokes to lighten the atmosphere. The highlight of the ceremony is when the president officially pardons the turkeys, granting them a reprieve from their Thanksgiving fate.
After the pardoning ceremony, the turkeys are transported to their new home, typically a farm or a petting zoo, where they can live out the rest of their lives in peace and comfort. Often, they become local celebrities, attracting visitors who want to catch a glimpse of the fortunate birds who escaped the dinner table.
Through the years, the turkey pardon has become a cherished tradition that captures the essence of the Thanksgiving season – a time to reflect on our blessings, express gratitude, and extend kindness to others, even in unexpected ways. It serves as a reminder that even in the highest offices of the land, there is room for compassion and mercy.
In a world where presidential pardons are usually associated with political controversies and legal proceedings, the turkey pardon stands out as a lighthearted and positive act of kindness. It brings joy and laughter to many, reminding us that even in the most serious of times, there is always room for a little humor and goodwill.
As we approach this year’s Thanksgiving holiday, let us take a moment to appreciate and celebrate the White House’s turkey tradition. It is a tradition that reflects the values we hold dear – compassion, gratitude, and the ability to find joy in even the simplest of gestures.
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