On November 1, staff members at the Donaldson Administrative Building celebrated Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, a vibrant tradition rooted in ancient Aztec customs. This meaningful holiday invites the spirits of deceased loved ones to return, celebrating the cycles of life and death. While primarily observed in Mexico, Día de los Muertos is recognized in various regions across the globe, focusing on commemorating family and friends who have passed away.
The Family and Community Engagement Department played a significant role in organizing the event, setting up an ofrenda—an altar adorned with photographs of departed loved ones. This traditional altar typically includes key elements such as earth, wind, water, and fire, alongside offerings of food and personal items significant to the deceased. Attendees enjoyed Mexican pastries and coffee, fostering a sense of community and remembrance. Each year, staff are encouraged to contribute photos to be displayed on the ofrenda, enhancing the collective connection to their loved ones.
The origins of Día de los Muertos trace back to the Oaxaca region, deeply influenced by the ancient customs of Indigenous peoples like the Aztecs, Mayans, and others in what is now Mexico and Central America. These cultures believed in the afterlife, celebrating the interconnection of life and death. The present-day observance of the holiday emerged from a blend of these Indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial influences, including All Saints Day and All Souls Day.
Today, November 1 is dedicated to the remembrance of children, known as Día de los angelitos, while November 2 honors all who have passed. Key symbols of the celebration include ofrendas, calaveras (skulls), and colorful papel picado (cut paper) decorations, which embody the joy and respect inherent in this tradition.
In Mexican homes and community gatherings, families spend days preparing for the holiday, tidying gravesites and cooking favorite dishes to attract the spirits of their loved ones. They create beautifully decorated altars and hold lively celebrations, often at cemeteries, where they share food, music, and stories, celebrating the return of those they miss.
The celebration of Día de los Muertos is a vivid expression of love and remembrance, echoing through joyous festivities that honor those who have passed while emphasizing the importance of family and community ties. This year’s celebration at the Donaldson Administrative Building exemplifies the beauty of coming together to reflect, share stories, and remember the legacies of cherished relatives in a spirit of love and celebration.
Día de los Muertos stands as a reminder that while loss is a natural part of life, the memories we hold can create enduring connections that remain vibrant. Each celebration not only brings forth a sense of nostalgia but also promotes unity and appreciation for the lives that had a profound impact on our own.