Dear Colleagues:
Día de los Muerto is a Mexican holiday celebrated each year from October 31 – November 2. Not to be confused with Halloween, Día de los Muertos celebrates the belief that for a day, the separation of the spirit world and the real word opens to allow the souls of the dead to return and celebrate with their loved ones. Families often build ofrendas (altars) in their homes containing favorites of the deceased including foods, candles, pictures, and other items to honor and welcome the deceased. Marigolds, often called the ‘flowers of the dead’, are also included on the ofrenda as the fragrance is believed to attract souls to the altar. While the celebration may not have looked the same, rituals of honoring the dead date back thousands of years to the Aztecs and other Nahua people.
In celebration of Día de los Muertos, visit the César Chávez Cultural Center’s Nicho display at the University Center next to the information desk. For further education and development related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, please find additional sources located under Education and Resources on the Equity & Inclusion site.
Feliz Día de los Muertos!
Dr. Tobias J. Guzmán
Vice President of the Division of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Pronouns: He|Him|His
