As leaves begin to fall, a unique celebration of life and remembrance takes place: Day of the Dead. Known in Spanish as "Día de los Muertos," this traditional Mexican holiday, celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, honors the lives of the departed. Far from being a somber occasion, it's a vibrant, colorful festival filled with joy, remembering loved ones who have passed away, and celebrating their memories. This year Widener Library and Fuerza Latina came together to host a two-day event.
The first day was dedicated to the creation of an "ofrenda" or altar, a crucial element of the Day of the Dead. Students and community members gathered to build and decorate an ofrenda from scratch. The resulting ofrenda, vibrant with sugar skulls, marigolds, candles, and cherished photographs, was then proudly displayed in the library, symbolizing a bridge between cultures and the living and the departed.
The following day, Widener Library opened its doors for a Dia de los Muertos open house, inviting the wider community to join in the celebration. Community members of all identities were encouraged to add photos of their own loved ones, further personalizing the ofrenda.
The atmosphere buzzed with cultural richness, as attendees engaged in various traditional activities. One could feel the warmth and joy as people crafted "sugar skulls," intricate and colorful, each a small work of art symbolizing the cyclical nature of life. People were also able to enjoy desserts such as "pan de muerto," a sweet bread that is traditionally eaten on Day of the Dead as it is meant to represent the cirlce of life and death.
Additionally, participants crafted "flores de cempasúchil" (marigold flowers), whose bright orange hues and scent are believed to guide the spirits to the altar.
A particularly touching aspect of the celebration was the opportunity for community members to write letters to their deceased loved ones. These letters, full of love and memories added a deeply personal and emotional layer to the event.
The event ended with a series of student performances. The library resonated with the sound of singing and the poignant beauty of poem readings, creating a space where art and emotion intertwined, honoring those who have passed in the most heartfelt way.
This collaboration between Widener Library and Fuerza Latina not only brought a significant cultural celebration to the forefront but also highlighted the importance of inclusivity and community in academic spaces. As we look back at the success of this event, it's clear that such initiatives play a crucial role in bridging cultural gaps and enriching our collective experience. It's a step forward in celebrating diversity and we hope that this event becomes a yearly tradition between Widener and other Latine/x organizations on campus.
