MINNEAPOLIS — As the sun rose on a Saturday morning, over 100 people joined colorful Aztec dancers under an arch of paper flowers to celebrate Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, at El Colegio High School. This annual festivity is a time for families and friends to reconnect with their ancestors, both in memory and spirit. It's a way of greeting our ancestors into our homes, bringing them back into our lives, shared Daniela Rosales, a senior at the school. Even if they’re not here physically, they are always with us spiritually.
This year, the celebration held deeper significance for many Latino communities across the U.S., particularly amidst rising fears of immigration enforcement during the Trump administration. While concerns loomed about potential raids, the turnout reflected a resilient spirit, embodying pride in cultural heritage. Justin Ek, a festival organizer, emphasized the importance of these traditions in healing and honoring family legacies.
Visiting altars adorned with marigolds, candles, and the favorite foods of the deceased was a powerful reminder of community bonds. Participants voiced unity against fear, reinforcing that cultural celebrations strengthen identities. As they danced and honored the past, they looked forward to nurturing their community amidst a challenging socio-political landscape.
