Post by Claudia Ivette Sanchez
El Dia de los Muertos is a ritual that has indigenous roots and has been practiced for over 3000 years. Outside of Mexico, other Latin American countries like Guatemala, Ecuador, Bolivia and Brazil continue to celebrate this ritual. With the influx of Latin American people in the US, many US cities collaborate to continue this celebration, as well.
The current tradition consists of basic principles adapted from the originating Aztec ritual (such as the use of skulls), but in modern day it is highly influenced by Catholic theology. The skulls were used to symbolize death and rebirth and were used to honor the dead, whom the Aztecs and other Meso-American civilizations believed came back to visit during the ritual.
Unlike the Spaniards, who viewed death as the end of life, the natives viewed it as the continuation of life. Instead of fearing death, they embraced it. To them, life was a dream and only in death did they become truly awake. However, the Spaniards considered the ritual to be sacrilegious. They perceived the indigenous people to be barbaric and pagan. The ritual was celebrated throughout the duration of the 9th month of the Aztec calendar. To make the ritual more Christian, the Spaniards moved it so it coincided with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (Nov. 1 and 2), which is when it is celebrated today.
There is a vast diversity in the way this tradition is celebrated and often varies from town to town. In some areas family members visit the cemetery, while others create altars in memory of the deceased in their homes or community spaces. These altars transform into the space where the living and the dead can reconnect. People place offerings, photos and memorabilia, and many more items that show their respect and remembrance of the deceased.
Join us on Wednesday 11/2 and Thursday 11/3 from noon-3pm at SPH 1 and check out our altar display, learn more about this tradition, health issues afttecting the Latino community, and have a bit of fun with some arts and crafts!
Dia de los Muertos 2011 @ UM SPH brought to you by La Salud.
