Día de los Muertos

History Mexican Holiday Focuses on gatherings family and friends to pray and remember friends and family members who have died. National Holiday in Mexico November 1 st and 2 nd

Traditions Traditions connected with the holiday include Building private alters honoring deceased Use skulls and marigolds to decorate Visit graves with the favorite food and beverages of the deceased

Origins Traced back to indigenous cultures As long as 2,500-3,000 years In most regions of Mexico November 1 honors children and infants November 2 honors adults

Beliefs People go to cemeteries to be with the souls of the departed. Build private altars Toys are brought for children The Skull (Calavera) is the common symbol

Estados Unidos Many American communities with Mexican residents, Day of the Dead celebrations are held Example: Los Angeles: Self Help Graphics & Art Mexican American cultural center has an annual Day of the Dead celebration Honor the victims of the Iraq War Highlighting the high causality rate among Latino Soldiers