Spanish Club decorates for Day of the Dead

Nov. 1 is normally just an ordinary day where most are coming down from the aftermath of Halloween in the U.S., but to other cultures, this day carries special significance.

In Spanish speaking countries, Nov. 1 is known as “Dia de los Muertos,” or “The Day of the Dead,” a day where the life of a lost one is celebrated, rather than mourned. The University of South Dakota’s Spanish Club is celebrating this year by honoring the life of Frida Kahlo, a famous painter.

“The dead person in spirit comes back,” said Professor Deborah VanDamme, supervisor of the Spanish Club.

Halloween is a tradition celebrated by all age groups in the U.S. by dressing up and trick-or-treating, going to costume parties or watching scary movies. Either way, it is usually a day full of fun, ending the month of October and ushering in November, which Spanish countries celebrate in a completely different way.

The Spanish Club has decorated an altar in the corner of the library to give students an idea of what this celebration looks like. The altar is for Kahlo, who painted in the 1940s and early 1950s. Known for her self-portraits and indigenous traditions, VanDamme and the members of the Spanish Club, believed that she was a perfect person to celebrate.

“Her artwork reflected her life,” VanDamme said.

Traditionally, friends and family bring gifts, pictures and wonderful, uplifting stories about the person and a dinner is held. Because there is no personal connection, VanDamme thought it would be fun to find the great things Frida Kahlo did in her lifetime, and those memories will be reflected.

The day has been celebrated in Spanish-speaking countries for centuries and traditions are still carried on by families today, who sit vigil by their deceased family members’ graves on the night of Nov. 1.

Sophomore Lauren Bennett, president of the Spanish Club, said she encourages students to attend this celebration.

Students are encouraged to join the Spanish Club in the library Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. and celebrate the life of Frida Kahlo. The altar is located on the first floor of the library near the help desks.