Blog post 1: Dia de los Muertos event at El Centro de La Raza

It was obvious that convivencia was present at El Centro De La Raza for the Dia de los Muertos event. The environment created by every individual at the event was welcoming, warm, uplifting, and full of culture. Upon my arrival to El Centro on 11/5 I heard Cumbia music playing and children playing in a nearby playground. As I continued to walk, I noticed many puestos of vendors selling equites, pan de muerto, warm drinks and much more. There was also puestos selling jewelry and traditional clothing. As I made my way through, the announcer announced the next dancers who were going to preform, although I didn’t stay to watch by the reaction of the audience it was clear the dancers were blowing everyone’s mind with their dancing skills. I didn’t expect to see so many people at the event, from girls and women dressed in traditional dresses with their faces painted with skull candy designs—to multi-generational families, children and young adults. 

Blog Post 2: Dia de los Muertos event at El Centro de L Raza

The Ofrendas that were created for this significant celebration were aesthetic in their own element. I noticed how every Ofrenda was colorful, warm and had adequate details that were very captivating to the eye. No matter how big or small they were, they all had unique details. As I made my way around through every Ofrenda. I was able to see how each Ofrenda had its own theme—whether it was honoring the Black Lives Matter movement, Jewish women, honoring loved ones, and those who’ve passed due to covid-19. Each ofrenda had a theme that represented stories within. It was rather inspiring and educational to understand why individuals celebrate and/or participate in the Dia de los Muertos event. The event brings so much of the community together, by uplifting spirits and celebrating death—turning the western idea of death around. Dia de los Muertos brings us closer to our culture and those loved ones who’ve passed. It’s a beautiful celebration of death.