Yamely Chavez Kennedy is commemorating her late grandmother, Marta Salinas, by creating an ofrenda at Colima Market in Bend, Oregon, this Día de los Muertos. This year marks the first time Chavez Kennedy has included her grandmother, who passed away from colon cancer at the age of 80. Salinas had a special love for cempasúchil, the vibrant marigold flowers that play a significant role in the Día de los Muertos celebrations.
Día de los Muertos is a rich cultural tradition with roots among the Indigenous Purépecha and Mayan peoples, blending ancient practices with Catholic elements introduced by Spanish colonizers. This celebration is now recognized and celebrated throughout Mexico and across the Americas.
Chavez Kennedy has owned Colima Market for a decade, also running two additional stores in Redmond and Madras. While she bears concerns about competition from a larger supermarket opening in Madras, her entrepreneurial spirit remains strong. When a vendor from Fresno, California, offered to supply her with cempasúchil flowers on a sale-or-return basis, she seized the opportunity. This resulted in 500 bunches appearing in her Bend store, marking the first time she has sold these flowers.
For Chavez Kennedy, the presence of these flowers is a sign of her grandmother’s spirit, providing comfort amid the competitive challenges she faces. She believes that the vibrancy of cempasúchil represents her grandmother’s reassurance, symbolizing strength in their shared journey.
In preparation for Día de los Muertos, Chavez Kennedy set up her ofrenda with traditional offerings, including pan de muerto, water, salt, tortillas, and her aunt’s favorite beer. Initially hesitant to create the ofrenda at the store, customer interest convinced her to move forward, showcasing the deep cultural significance and community aspect of the tradition.
As she arranged the memorial, playing the song “La Llorona,” Chavez Kennedy placed a cherished photo of her grandmother on display, alongside the offerings intended to nourish the spirit of Salinas.
Looking ahead, Chavez Kennedy envisions creating a community ofrenda next year, offering items like sugar skulls and papel picado to enhance the celebration further. This initiative mirrors a spirited commitment to heritage and connection, fostering community engagement and an appreciation for the traditions that shape their identities.
Local events surrounding Día de los Muertos in Bend include various opportunities for people to honor their loved ones and take part in communal celebrations. These events not only highlight the richness of Latino culture but also serve as a reminder of the enduring bonds between family and community.
The ongoing efforts of individuals like Chavez Kennedy illustrate the beauty of remembering and honoring those who have come before us, ensuring that cultural traditions remain alive for future generations.