Day of the Dead, Dia de los Muertos, is a Mexican Indigenous day of remembering deceased ancestors and loved ones. It is an excellent learning and teaching opportunity for participants in their journey of self discovery, cultural identity and a deeper understanding of the essence of family and community.
,As we prepare for Day of the Dead, Dia de Los Muertos, students, parents, teachers, staff and community members participate in constructing an altar, (“ofrenda”), celebrating and recognizing family members and special friends who are deceased. Participants learn about the essence of the three deaths of the deceased journey and its impact on the living left behind.
First death: the moment someone dies, exhales their last breath…
Second death: the day the deceased is buried, no longer to be seen on the face of the earth…
Third death: the most dreadful death…is to be forever forgotten
What was accomplished:
Families and other community members gain knowledge about the origins and importance of the celebration of life, Dia de Los Muertos and the “ofrenda,” the altar.
Participants contribute artifacts and share stories of deceased loved ones, some they may not have known about before.
Participants learn and practice inquiry and storytelling skills to share with their family, peers and other community members about Day of the Dead celebrating life while preserving and sharing the memories of loved ones who have passed.
Participants experiences the importance and value of not forgetting those who have passed.