Black Friday, a tradition for many American families, used to follow the celebration of Thanksgiving. In the past few years, however, the two “holidays” began to overlap with the early opening of many stores, causing people to choose shopping over family gatherings.

The day after Thanksgiving is referred to as Black Friday, “black” referencing the stock market and the positive profit gain. It is the unofficial beginning of shopping for the Christmas season and often includes deep discounts or special sales.

In recent years, retailers including Target, Sears, Macy’s and Walmart have been opening stores the night of Thanksgiving instead of waiting for the following day. The early opening allows businesses to make more money yet forces employees to work on a holiday and give up their celebration plans.

The extension of Black Friday store hours to Thanksgiving is out of hand, encouraging greed and taking away from Thanksgiving’s purpose. It is a time for families to gather and be thankful. Because of the new tradition of earlier store openings, people go shopping instead of eating together or being with loved ones; consequently, the purpose of Thanksgiving is undermined an undervalued. Although businesses count on making a profitable year through Black Friday, it should remain that: Friday.