Several Native American organizations gathered around a table laden with ham, turkey and traditional Thanksgiving sides Monday night to remember a day of thanks.

“Every year all of the Native American groups and people come together to give thanks for all that we have now,” said Mary Thornton, English literature senior and president of Gamma Delta Phi, one of the seven organizations that hosted the event.

Sealy said most tribes do not view Thanksgiving as a negative holiday, despite its history. Sealy said he accepts it as a social event and occasion to gather with friends and family.

“This is more of a social event, rather than a holiday celebration,” said Richard Heller, mechanical engineering senior and president of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society.

With five turkeys, four hams, mashed potatoes, stuffing, sweet potatoes and pies, the seven Native American organizations gathered to feast on a meal indicative of a traditional Thanksgiving.

“All of the food was excellent, the sweet potatoes were delicious,” said Amanda Kelley, graduate student in Native American studies.

Before the dinner, students and faculty socialized in the lounge area while waiting for the meal to begin.

Leroy Sealy, Choctaw instructor at OU, began the dinner with a prayer in Choctaw, which said he was thankful for the food and wished students a safe trip home for the holiday.

“We do this each year for the benefit of students faculty and staff,” Sealy said. “This is one of the best events to see colleagues and students.”