By Anusha Trivedi '23

This week Latinas Unidas set up an altar in the Manley Hall foyer to celebrate Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, a Mexican tradition honoring those who have passed away.  Our learning community was invited to participate in the altar by bringing pictures or mementos of loved ones, as a way of honoring their lives. It is believed the happy spirits will provide protection, good luck and wisdom to the families.

Día De Los Muertos, which means “Day of the Dead,” is a holiday originating in Mexico but that is celebrated all over Latin America. It is meant to honor loved ones or important figures who have passed away. It is celebrated on the 1st and 2nd of November and, during the holiday, it is believed that the souls of the dead return to feast with their family. 

On Día De Los Muertos, people also make altars in their homes to honor their ancestors and lead them back to family. Latinas Unidas put together an altar in Manley Hall and invited the Notre Dame community to leave a photo of a departed loved one on it to be blessed. These altars are usually decorated with candles, papel picado, pictures, marigolds, food and calaveras (sugar skulls).