The better question is, why shouldn’t they be? For decades, the day after Thanksgiving, known as Black Friday, has been known for the best sales of the year. More recently, stores started opening their doors earlier and earlier. Stores like Kmart, Walmart, Macy’s and Target have stayed open on Thanksgiving, causing aggravation among crowds. The stores claim that they are staying open to help ease the congestion of Black Friday, and make a better experience for their shoppers.

Their ‘staying-closed’ rivals, such as Costco, Crate and Barrel, Marshalls, Nordstrom, and more, say that the idea of staying open on Thanksgiving is a non family-friendly notion. They claim that it’s inconsiderate to make the employees at the stores remaining open have to work on a national holiday. Others say that it’s disrespectful to have the option of shopping on Thanksgiving, making some family members feel rushed to go shopping instead of spending quality time together.

However, I believe that stores should be allowed to, in fact, should stay open on Thanksgiving. Many of the workers at these stores are not making a lot of money. Some employees would revel at the idea of earning extra money, and getting a free meal, which the stores that are staying open have promised. And, though Thanksgiving is a widely celebrated holiday, it is true that some people don’t celebrate it, or at least people don’t celebrate the holiday in the same way. Movie theaters, grocery stores and restaurants stay open on Thanksgiving, which means their employees have to work on this family holiday as well. It’s many people’s tradition to cook a nice home meal and spend the entire night with family, while others go out to dinner or go see a movie after the feast. If some people want to go shopping to get good deals, or go as a tradition, people shouldn’t be able to tell them they can’t.

Stores stay open on other major holidays of the year, and aren’t getting this backlash. Have you ever woken up Christmas morning and realized you forgot to get a present for your pesky little brother? Not a problem, because you can find stores that are open for you to buy your last-minute gift. And what about New Years? Need the party streamers, hats, plates and other supplies for your blow out party? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The Fourth of July? Speak no more. So why is it such a big deal if people want to spend part of Thanksgiving shopping? I personally am not a fan of month long decorations and preparation, but for some it brings joy, so why cramp their style?

Why is it bothersome? If you don’t want to shop on Thanksgiving because you think it’s a sacred time for family, then just don’t. If stores decide to be open and you don’t feel like shopping, then simply stay home. If you want to take advantage of big sales on Thanksgiving, then that should be fine, too. Though Thanksgiving is a wonderful family event for most, that doesn’t mean it can’t be celebrated a day late or early. Let’s just all be thankful for what we have.