A hot button issue, the biggest shopping day of the year; the kick-off to the Holiday Season, you guessed it, Black Friday. There is so much negative connotation when someone supports Black Friday. But, it’s important to understand why so many people do support this extravaganza, an important topic that is not usually talked about.

Many people refuse to shop Black Friday since employees must work part of Thanksgiving, which ultimately takes them away from their families during an important holiday. Others refuse because they will not give up time with their family on Thanksgiving, to catch a “good deal.” These are important arguments; however, we need to look at the other side.

This year, 44% of Americans shopped on Black Friday, and it’s important to consider, this may be the only way that this 44% of people will be able to afford Christmas gifts for their family, especially their Children. 80% of these shoppers had half of their total Christmas shopping done by the time the event ended. We must realize that everyone is not financially capable of affording gifts at full price all the time. We must understand that parents and family members will sacrifice time together on Thanksgiving, to please their children and kids the next month later.

Whether you support Black Friday or not, we shouldn’t degrade people for shopping on the day or not. For some, we don’t understand the hardships people face, especially during the holiday season. For others, we must understand their value of family. Let those who shop, shop; and let those who mingle with family, mingle with family.