Students and staff celebrate Day of the Dead

Families each November reunite in spirit with their deceased loved ones, offering food or flowers that lay by photos to tribute to these souls. Day of the Dead, or Día de Los Muertos, is a combination of Mesoamerican tradition, Aztec beliefs, and European religion celebrated in what is now Mexico. It is prominent in Hispanic culture  and has since integrated into America, paying homage to the life of passed family members with mementos and pleasant memories.

“I’m Mexican, and my family and I participate every year. We set up an ofrenda (altar) by lit candles and laying marigolds, then offered items specific to the family member’s liking. It’s a day to remember them, their contributions to our lives, and their legacy,” said teacher and Exchange Club Sponsor Sandra Alvarado.

Each person is unique in their rituals of commemoration, but most follow a set pattern of practice. Commonly, decorative edible skulls crafted from sugar –sugar skulls, or a Calavera– are displayed on altars or given to friends and family as a token of appreciation. Though these skulls often cause the comparison between the Day of the Dead and Halloween, they symbolize a sweet death. Others usually come together to cook meals that are enjoyable and important to them and their late loved ones. 

“My family and I gather and make food while listening to Mexican music, then call some family in Mexico and visit my grandpa at the cemetery. My favorite tradition has to be making authentic Mexican food with my mom,” said senior exchange club member Natalia Garcia. “I think it’s beautiful how my culture is celebrated worldwide and in everyone’s special way, even if it’s more widespread in some places than others.”

As the Day of the Dead becomes more recognized outside of Mexico , people of different backgrounds tend to grasp at least a vague comprehension. Because movies such as Coco or The Book of Life have introduced the holiday to youths, both films are sometimes used in American education curriculums to teach Spanish. They present to their audience that having Mexican descent is not required to appreciate and recognize the holiday’s cultural impact.

“I don’t participate myself, but I believe it’s important to Latin Americans because it is their method of honoring elders even if they are no longer around. People of color tend to raise the bar in terms of respecting their seniors,” senior Key Club member Naarh Logan said.

With the rise of Americans becoming aware of the holiday and what it stands for, more can adopt an understanding of the tradition of paying respect to relatives. Day of the Dead is a time to be surrounded by friends and family, acknowledging their lost loved ones and relishing their time together. Despite the grim matter of death, Día de Los Muertos is a time of bitter-sweet merriment as the dead and living enjoy each others’ company again.

Written by Isabella Cournyea | Graphic Designed by Isabella Cournyea

Published November 1, 2022 | ePathfinder | Feature