On Wednesday, October 30, 2024, Merritt College students, staff, faculty, and administrators joined PUENTE'S celebration of Día de los Muertos, coming together to honor and remember loved ones who have passed. This meaningful gathering occurred in the Student Lounge, Library, and hallways of the R-building.
During the event, Sociology students and Puentistas acknowledged the children and parents who have lost their lives in Palestine. Professor Alex Garcia y La Danza enriched the celebration by providing a historic lens for ceremonial drumming, Aztec dancing, and a beautiful altar presentation. Dr. Lilia Chavez shared two songs and a prayer about taking care of ourselves and honoring our ancestors. Puente shared the history of Día de los Muertos, pan dulce, and champurrado (hot chocolate).
About Los Dias de los Muertos
The tradition of celebrating Los Dias de los Muertos, brought to the U.S. by Mexican people, extends beyond a single day. Starting around October 27 or 28, depending on the region in Mexico, this tradition is a period of remembrance and connection with departed loved ones.
Altars, or “ofrendas,” are set up as symbolic doors to the Underworld, allowing the spirits to reenter and visit. Families place photos, water, favorite foods, and drinks of the deceased to welcome and refresh them. Many items on the altar are symbolic; for example, cigarettes can represent someone’s spirit while also serving as protection in the Underworld. Beans often appear to symbolize rebirth and the cycle of life.
Different days of this tradition honor different groups of departed souls. El Día de los Angelitos remembers children who have died, while other days are dedicated to those who drowned, those murdered, or those still in Purgatory. The well-known All Souls’ Day and All Saints’ Day honor both the departed souls and saints of the Church, known and unknown. In some regions, this is a month-long celebration.
Remembering the dearly departed in this way is a profound and beautiful way to reflect on our own journey and mortality.
Descansa en Paz (Rest in Peace).
