By U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez:

For me, Thanksgiving has always been about family and comunidad. It’s about sharing a deep sense of gratitude and gathering for a delicious meal in the company of loved ones.

I am immensely grateful that my family will once again gather around the table to share this special meal. Everyone is bringing their signature dish, including the red chile to pour over the mashed potatoes — would it be a New Mexican dinner without chile?

This year, I’m feeling extra grateful. Earlier this month, you placed your trust in me and sent me back to Congress to fight for our fellow New Mexicans, our freedoms, and our values. In this new political environment, it means the world to me that I have earned that trust once again to advocate for you and your family. So, on this particular Thanksgiving, I can’t thank you enough for all your support.

But we’re also celebrating more than just Thanksgiving this week!

On Friday, I will also honor Native American Heritage Day — a day that means so much to me and this community. I will honor those who came before us and everything they’ve endured, and I will celebrate the Native cultures that make our country — and especially our enchanted New Mexican communities — so strong and vibrant.

From my family to yours: Happy Thanksgiving and Native American Heritage Day to all celebrating this week! We hope you have a restful holiday!