Time to Move On? 24 Controversial American Traditions We Should Leave in the Past

Traditions shape who we are as a society. They bring us together, create shared experiences, and help us feel connected to our past.

But not all traditions stand the test of time. Some might have made sense long ago, but now they’re outdated, harmful, or just don’t fit with how we live today.

In this article, we’ll look at 24 American traditions that might be time to let go. We’ll cover all sorts of traditions, cultural ones, social habits, and even some of our institutional practices.

As we go through this list, keep an open mind. You might agree with some points and disagree with others. The goal here isn’t to tell you what to think, but to get us all thinking about the traditions we follow and why. 

What do you think? Are there other traditions we should reconsider? Or new ones we should start? Let us know in the comments!

Black Friday: Shopping Frenzy or Dangerous Tradition?

Black Friday used to be a simple day of post-Thanksgiving sales. Now, it’s turned into a chaotic shopping event that sometimes leads to violence. Stores open earlier and earlier, cutting into family time on Thanksgiving. 

Workers face exhausting shifts and potentially dangerous crowds. The push for extreme deals encourages impulse buying and overspending. More than half of Americans chose to skip Black Friday altogether last year. 

It’s clear that this tradition is losing its appeal. Maybe it’s time to find a new way to kick off the holiday shopping season, one that doesn’t put profits above people’s well-being.

Times Are Changing: 27 Traditions That Americans Are Leaving Behind

Tipping Culture: Fair Reward or Financial Burden?

Tipping is deeply ingrained in American service industries, especially restaurants. But this system puts a lot of pressure on customers and creates financial uncertainty for workers. Their income can vary wildly based on factors outside their control. 

In 2023, 66% of Americans had negative views about tipping. Many people feel overwhelmed by the constant pressure to tip, even for quick counter service. 

Other countries have shown that it’s possible to have great service without relying on tips. Moving to a system with fairer alternatives could benefit both workers and customers.

I Am Tired of Tipping: 15 Places You Do Not Need to Tip

Turkey Pardons: Meaningful Mercy or Empty Gesture?

Every year, the President of the United States “pardons” a turkey before Thanksgiving. This ceremony is meant to be a light-hearted tradition, but it raises some questions when you think about it. We make a big show of saving one turkey while millions are killed for the holiday. 

It feels a bit like we’re trying to make ourselves feel better without really changing anything. This tradition doesn’t really address any meaningful issues about animal welfare or our food system. 

Instead of this symbolic gesture, we could use this time to have real conversations about how we treat farm animals and make our food choices.

Sustainable Thanksgiving: Tips For A Green T-Giving

Columbus Day: Celebration or Colonization?

Columbus Day has become increasingly controversial in recent years. As more people learn about Christopher Columbus’s actions towards Native Americans, they’re questioning why we celebrate him with a national holiday. 

Many cities and states have started replacing Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This new holiday aims to honor the rich cultures and histories of Native American peoples. It’s a way to recognize the full story of America’s past, including the difficult parts. 

Changing this holiday shows how we can update our traditions to better reflect our values and a more complete understanding of history.

How Much You Need To Live Comfortably in Your State (According To New Study)

Groundhog Day: Cute Custom or Outdated Ritual?

Groundhog Day is a quirky American tradition where we pretend a rodent can predict the weather. Every February 2nd, people gather to see if a groundhog will see its shadow, supposedly forecasting six more weeks of winter. It’s a fun bit of folklore, but it has no basis in science.

The Library of Congress even states that this shadow-watching custom “has no scientific basis.” While Groundhog Day is harmless fun, it doesn’t teach us anything real about weather or climate. 

We could use this day as a chance to learn about actual meteorology or discuss important environmental issues instead of relying on a groundhog’s shadow.

🙋‍♀️If you like what you are reading, then click like and subscribe to my newsletter. We share tips to waste less time and money.

Supersized Portions: Filling Plates or Expanding Waistlines?

American restaurants and fast food joints are famous for their huge portions. While it might seem like a good deal, these oversized meals are causing big health problems. Studies show that food portions in the U.S. have grown way beyond what’s healthy. 

Some dishes are up to 700% larger than what USDA recommends! This trend is making it hard for people to eat right. It’s no wonder that in 2023, almost 42% of American adults were considered obese. 

Maybe it’s time we rethink what a normal meal looks like. Smaller portions could help us enjoy our food more and stay healthier at the same time.

21 Healthy Ways to Naturally Control Your Appetite for Weight Loss

Leaving Home at 18: Independence or Unnecessary Pressure?

There’s a strong expectation in American culture that young adults should move out of their parents’ home when they turn 18. This idea pushes young people to be independent before they might be ready, financially or emotionally. 

It can lead to unnecessary stress, debt, and even homelessness for those who can’t afford to live on their own. The reality is that 52% of young adults aged 18-29 in the U.S. now live with their parents. 

This shift reflects changing economic conditions and evolving views on adulthood. Instead of pushing for early independence, we could focus on supporting young adults as they gradually take on more responsibilities.

30 Life Skills Younger Generations Are Losing

21st Birthday Binge: Rite of Passage or Reckless Risk?

The 21st birthday in America often comes with an expectation of heavy drinking. Some people even attempt the dangerous “21 for 21” challenge, trying to down 21 drinks in one night. This tradition encourages risky behavior right when young adults gain legal access to alcohol. 

It can lead to alcohol poisoning, accidents, and other serious consequences. Four out of five college students report drinking to celebrate their 21st birthday. 

This cultural norm puts unnecessary pressure on young people and can set a dangerous precedent for future alcohol use. We should consider safer ways to mark this milestone that don’t center around binge drinking.

Smells Like 90s Spirit: Popular Things From The 1990s That Faded Away

Gender Reveals: Joyful Announcements or Harmful Stereotypes?

Gender reveal parties have gotten way out of hand in recent years. These events often reinforce outdated gender stereotypes before a child is even born. In some cases, they’ve led to property damage, injuries, and even fatalities. 

In 2020, a gender reveal party sparked a wildfire in California that burned over 22,000 acres. These parties also ignore the complexity of gender identity, which can’t be determined before birth. 

Instead of these potentially harmful celebrations, we could find ways to welcome new babies that don’t impose gender expectations or put people at risk.  

Free Baby stuff: 28 Places To Get Free Samples For Babies

Daylight Saving: Time Saver or Health Hazard?

Twice a year, we change our clocks, disrupting our sleep patterns and daily routines. This practice started as a way to save energy, but studies show it doesn’t really help much. In fact, it might do more harm than good. 

The days after we “spring forward” see a 24% increase in heart attacks. People feel groggy, less productive, and more prone to accidents. Many countries have already stopped this practice, keeping their clocks the same all year round. 

It might be time for the US to join them. Sticking to one time year-round could improve our health, safety, and overall well-being.

🙋‍♀️If you like what you are reading, then click like and subscribe to my newsletter. We share tips to waste less time and money.

American Dream: Inspiring Ideal or Unrealistic Expectation?

The idea of the American Dream, that anyone can become successful through hard work. has been a central part of our national story. But for many, this dream feels out of reach. 

Rising costs of living, stagnant wages, and systemic inequalities make it harder for people to climb the economic ladder. The US actually ranks lower in economic mobility compared to many other developed countries. 

This means it’s harder for Americans to improve their financial situation than we might think. Maybe it’s time to redefine what success looks like. We could focus more on community, personal fulfillment, and quality of life rather than just material wealth.

Are You Wealthy? 25 Signs Someone Is Considered Wealthy

Keeping Up with the Joneses: Social Norm or Unnecessary Stress?

We’ve all heard the phrase “keeping up with the Joneses.” It’s about trying to match or outdo your neighbors’ lifestyle. This pressure to show off can cause a lot of stress and money problems. 

A 2024 survey found that over half of people admit they’ve overspent just to impress others. Even worse, 56% of those people ended up in debt because of it. That’s a lot of stress for the sake of looking good! 

Instead of constantly chasing more, we could adopt the concept of “satisfice“, finding what is “good enough” and being content with it. This approach might help us focus on what truly matters in life, rather than always craving more stuff.

39 Things You Really Don’t Need In Your Home & Should Get Rid Of Now

Car Culture: Freedom on Wheels or Environmental Nightmare?

Americans love their cars. Our cities are built around them, with wide roads and lots of parking. But this car-centered lifestyle comes with big costs. Cars are the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the US, accounting for approximately 29% of the total emissions in 2022.

Our reliance on cars leads to traffic jams, air pollution, and less walking. It also makes it harder to build efficient public transportation systems. Many European cities show us a different way. 

They prioritize walking, biking, and public transit, creating healthier and more connected communities. Shifting away car culture could make our cities more livable and help protect the environment.

12 States Banning Gas Powered Cars (Even Though Americans Want Them)

Pledge of Allegiance: Patriotic Practice or Forced Loyalty?

The Pledge of Allegiance is a daily routine in many American schools. Kids stand up, put their hands on their hearts, and say the same words every morning. While this tradition began in 1892, its effectiveness in teaching children about good citizenship is now being questioned. 

Some argue that having young children repeat words they might not fully understand is more like training than teaching. While loving our country is important, there might be better ways to help kids understand what that means. 

Instead of just repeating words, we could encourage students to think about what being a good citizen really means. Getting involved in community projects or learning about how our government works could teach kids more about patriotism than reciting the same pledge each day.

Remember When? 22 Ways Kids Had More Freedom in the 1960s

Degree Obsession: Education Gold Standard or Overlooking Alternatives?

In America, there’s often a belief that you need a college degree to be successful. But this idea might be causing us to overlook other great career paths. Trade jobs like plumbing, electrical work, and construction can offer really good pay and job security. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many of these professions pay between $50,000 and $70,000 a year. Plus, you can often start these careers without the heavy student loan debt that comes with a four-year degree. 

It might be time to change how we think about education and success. There are many ways to build a rewarding career, and college is just one of them. Encouraging young people to explore all their options could lead to happier workers and a stronger economy.

How to Save Money in College: Unlocking the Secrets that Save Students Money!

Fraternity Hazing: Bonding Ritual or Dangerous Game?

Fraternities and sororities are a big part of college life for many students. But the hazing rituals associated with them can be dangerous. Since 2000, more than 50 people have died due to hazing incidents. 

These rituals often involve excessive drinking, humiliation, or risky stunts. They can promote harmful attitudes and exclusive behavior. Now, 44 states have laws against hazing, but it still happens. 

Colleges could focus on creating safer ways for students to bond and build community. This could include community service projects, academic clubs, or other activities that don’t put students at risk.

18 Side Hustles For College Students (With Pay Estimates & Video)

Death Penalty: Justice Served or Ethical Dilemma?

The United States is one of the few developed countries that still uses the death penalty. This practice raises serious moral questions. There’s always a risk of executing an innocent person. 

Studies also show it doesn’t really deter crime any more than long prison sentences. The death penalty is expensive for taxpayers and can traumatize everyone involved, including prison staff. 

While most Americans still support it for murder cases, many states have banned it. As we learn more about criminal justice, it might be time to reconsider this practice nationwide.

Electoral College: Fair System or Democratic Disconnect?

The way we elect presidents in the US is unique. The Electoral College system means that sometimes, the candidate with the most votes nationwide doesn’t win. This has happened five times in our history, including in 2016. 

Many people feel this system isn’t fair and doesn’t reflect the will of the people. It also means that candidates focus mostly on a few “swing states” instead of the whole country. Some argue we should switch to a national popular vote system. 

This would make every vote count equally, no matter where you live. It’s a big change to consider, but it could make our elections more democratic.

Where Are Americans Moving? Top 10 States Losing and Gaining Residents

Debt Dependence: American Way or Financial Trap?

Many Americans have gotten used to living on credit. It’s become so normal that around a third of people expected to go into debt just for holiday shopping in 2023. This reliance on borrowed money isn’t just for big purchases, many individuals also use credit for everyday purchases. 

As we entered 2024, U.S. household debt hit a record high of $17.3 trillion! Living this way can lead to money troubles that last for years. 

It might be time to change how we think about spending and saving. Learning to live within our means could help us feel more secure and less stressed about money.

How Many Credit Cards Is Too Many Story

Political Dynasties: Family Legacy or Power Monopoly?

American politics has long been dominated by influential families, creating political dynasties. About 700 families have had two or more members serve in Congress. Famous examples include the Kennedy, Bush, and Clinton families. 

Actually did you know that the 2024 Presidential Election is the first without a Biden, Clinton, or a Bush on Ballot Since 1976?

While there’s nothing wrong with family members going into politics, it can make it harder for new voices to be heard. It can also give some families too much influence over time. Encouraging a wider range of people to run for office could bring fresh ideas and better represent all Americans. We could look at ways to make it easier for everyday people to get involved in politics.

Price Check: Are Americans Paying Fair Prices Compared to the World?

Workaholic Culture: Productivity Boost or Burnout Factory?

The American work culture often glorifies long hours and minimal vacation time. This approach can lead to burnout, stress, and poor mental health. 

According to a 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association, 77% of U.S. workers reported experiencing work-related stress. Many other countries have shown that a healthier work-life balance is not only possible but beneficial for both employees and employers. 

Shifting our work culture to value quality over quantity could improve productivity, creativity, and overall well-being.

Industries Causing Burnout: Is Yours on the List?

Lawn Perfection: Green Oasis or Environmental Drain?

The perfect green lawn has been an American ideal for decades. But maintaining these lawns uses a lot of resources. Americans use about 30-60 million gallons of water daily on their lawns. They also use 67 million pounds of pesticides each year. 

These chemicals can harm local ecosystems and wildlife. Native plants often need less water and care, and they support local birds and insects. Some people are switching to “freedom lawns” that include natural wildflowers and grasses. 

Others are growing vegetables or creating pollinator gardens. Rethinking our yards could save water, reduce chemical use, and create more diverse, interesting outdoor spaces.

Before You Leave On Any Vacation Get These Things Done

Systemic Racism: Uncomfortable Truth or Ongoing Challenge?

Racism remains deeply ingrained in various aspects of American society, manifesting in systemic inequalities in education, employment, healthcare, and criminal justice. 

For instance, Black adults are about five times as likely as whites to say they’ve been unfairly stopped by police because of their race or ethnicity (44% vs. 9%). 

Acknowledging and actively working to dismantle these systemic inequalities is crucial for creating a more just and equitable society. This involves not just changing laws, but also shifting cultural attitudes and addressing unconscious biases.

22 Life Lessons Boomers Want You to Know (With video)

Senate Filibuster: Minority Protection or Progress Blocker?

The filibuster is a Senate rule that lets a minority of senators block or delay votes on bills. It was meant to encourage debate and compromise. But in recent years, it’s been used more and more to simply stop things getting done. 

This has led to gridlock in Congress, making it hard to pass important laws. Some argue that the filibuster protects minority views in the Senate. Others say it gives too much power to a small group and prevents the majority will. 

There’s ongoing debate about changing or getting rid of the filibuster. How we decide could have a big impact on how our government works and what it can achieve. 

Don’t Be “That Person” Put Down Your Phone in These 24 Places

Moving Forward

Many long-standing American traditions might not serve us well anymore. It’s natural to feel attached to familiar customs, but growth often requires change. 

Letting go of outdated practices doesn’t mean forgetting our history. Instead, it opens doors to new, more inclusive traditions that better reflect our values and meet the needs of all Americans.

Think about which traditions still make sense in your life and community. Which ones could use an update? Small changes in our daily lives can lead to big shifts in our culture.

🙋‍♀️If you like what you just read, then subscribe to my newsletter and follow us on YouTube.👈

• Times Are Changing: 27 Traditions That Americans Are Leaving Behind
• Is California its Own Country? 31 Traits That Make 31st State Different
• The Best Road Trips in Every State: Iconic Road Trips
• 13 Pieces of Bad Financial Advice That Most People Still Believe
• Side Hustle Guide For Beginners: How To Earn Money On The Side (With Video)

AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.