The Day of the Dead is a uniquely Indo-Hispanic custom; it was originally intended to celebrate both children and the dead. It demonstrates a strong sense of love and respect for one’s ancestors; celebrates the continuance of life, family relationships, and commu- nity solidarity; and even finds humor after death. It is a holiday that preserves folk art and folklore as no other holiday does. It is created annually in the community, by the community, and for the community.
In the urban setting of Mexico City and in other large towns throughout Mexico, the celebration can be observed at its most exuberant. Figures of skulls and skeletons are everywhere. These mimic the living as they contort themselves into a modern dance of death. The celebration is a tourist event.
However, in rural villages and small towns, each household prepares its offerings of food and drink for the dead. In most localities in Mexico, November 1 is set aside for remem- brance of deceased infants and children, often referred to as Angelitos (little angels). The children’s spirits are expected to arrive just before dawn on November 1 and stay for only a few hours. Prayers are said at the altar in the home or church, which has been previously decorated with an abundance of flowers, toys, and other ornamentation. Incense is burned and food is offered until dawn. The grandmothers decorate the grave with toys and colorful balloons.
Adults who have died are honored on November 2. During the course of the celebration, families visit gravesites of their close kin. Gravesites are decorated with flowers, and picnics are held. Meals prepared for these picnics are sumptuous. There is a great deal of social interaction with other families and community members who have gathered at the cem-
MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT THE MEXICAN “DAY OF THE DEAD”:
• It is not the Mexican version of Halloween. Mexicans have celebrated the Day of the Dead since 1800 B.C.
• It is not scary or morbid. There are no images of dead people, ghosts, witches, or the devil.
• It doesn’t honor death. The opportunity to reflect upon the lives of their ancestors and heritage, and the meaning and purpose of our own existence.
VOICES FROM THE COMMUNITY: CROSS CULTURAL EXPRESSIONS OF GRIEF AT THE LOSS OF AN INFANT
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