For many people, this time of the year reminds them of holidays such as Halloween and Thanksgiving. However, people of Spanish and Latin American cultures have a different way of celebrating this time of the year, through Dia de los Muertos.
On Nov. 2, the Latino and Hispanic Student Organization (LAHSO) hosted a Dia de los Muertos celebration on campus in collaboration with Sigma Delta Pi, the Center for Diversity and Community and the Campus Activities Board. The event was hosted in the MUC pit and welcomed all students to learn more about the celebration.
Students that attended were taught that Dia de los Muertos is a holiday celebrated to remember and pray for those who have passed away. It is also a multiple-day celebration in which each day welcomes more lost loved ones.
LAHSO has been hosting the Dia de los Muertos celebration on campus for students for four years.
Jacey Anderberg, LAHSO Marketing Coordinator, said that she believes it is important for students to be educated on what Dia de los Muertos is.
“Not only do I feel it’s important to educate students regarding this celebration specifically, but it’s vital that all students gain multicultural perspectives and experiences while in college,” Anderberg said.
Anderberg said for her learning about Dia de los Muertos began as a way to connect with Latino and Hispanic cultures and expand her multicultural perspective.
“Today, it is not only that but a celebration of my own loved ones who have passed away as I grew more in touch with the Latino and Hispanic culture as well as the Día de los Muertos celebration,” Anderberg said.
The celebration began with a slide show highlighting important information about the Dia de los Muertos followed by a Kahoot set up for all who attended to test their knowledge on the Dia de los Muertos celebration.
“Events like Día de los Muertos allow us to connect with other cultures and vastly increase our understanding of the world, and with that, our empathy,” Anderberg said.
Students were also treated to a free meal catered by La Juanita’s as well as the screening of La Leyenda de la Llorona, a movie based on Latin American legend, La Llorona.
Anderberg said that she hopes the event helped students learn more about the purpose of the celebration and why it is so important to Latino and Hispanic communities.
“With this new knowledge, our goal is that students will form and enhance their appreciation and respect for the latino and hispanic culture,” Anderberg said.
