OXFORD – Miami University celebrated the culture of the “Day of the Dead” on Wednesday, Nov. 2.
In Spanish, Día de Muertos, the Day of the Dead is a traditional Mexican holiday focused on family and friends. The purpose is to remember family members who have died and to encourage their spiritual journey.
Typically, people will visit cemeteries to be with the departed and build altars containing the departed’s favorite foods, photos and memorabilia representing them.
Miami’s celebration was called “Traditions of the Day of Dead in the Latin(o) America and the Caribbean World.” It was a reception held in MacMillian Hall Lobby, home of the Study Abroad Office.
There were tables presenting altars that students made for their loved ones, a booth from Kramer Elementary School showing Day of the Dead art the students had made, a booth from Lane Library with themed activities, traditional bread, coffee and hot chocolate, and a large remembrance altar in the center of the room.
Latino Community Outreach Coordinator Silvia Rothschild opened the ceremony with a few words of gratitude. She thanked attendees, the Center for American and World Cultures, volunteers, the Spanish Department, and everyone who helped organize the program.
The event was sponsored by the Center for American and World Cultures, Global Initiatives.
