For as long as many of us can remember, Christmas treat bags with fruit have been a staple in countless Black households. But how did they come about? Those bags first made an appearance during the Great Depression, when Black families were suffering from extreme poverty. But there’s more to the story.
The second part is the rise of the Black church. Time after time, Black congregations came together to support and help one another whenever we experienced white terrorism and discrimination. During Christmas, treat bags were given to all families after church services to supplement meager diets.
Third, the bags actually are part of the St. Nicolas fable! According to the story, St. Nicolas was a wealthy man who served others. When he found that a man was too poor to give his daughters an appropriate marriage dowry, he dropped gold coins through the window. The oranges and candy represent this kind act.
Fourth, the bags helped ensure healthy food. Fresh fruit was not always available on demand yearround. The Christmas bags ensured delicacies and seasonal fruits were shared by everyone in the community.
The treat bag tradition reinforces the values critical to building a stronger Black community: mutual support, spirituality, and kindness. This holiday staple reminds us to keep strengthening our efforts to build our communities.