On November 1st and 2nd, Mexico immerses itself in a time of reverence and remembrance with the celebration of Day of the Dead. This significant festivity, rooted in Mesoamerican indigenous cultures, has transformed and enriched over the centuries by merging with Catholic traditions brought by Spanish conquistadors. Day of the Dead is a profound manifestation of collective memory and family ties, celebrating the lives of those who have passed away.
This year, the celebration has taken on special significance with the participation of the United Nations (UN) in Mexico, which has decided to join the event by creating an offering titled “Honoring life and peace.” This offering has been organized in collaboration with multiple cultural and educational entities and has been installed in the Casa Miguel Alemán within the Los Pinos Cultural Complex. The Otomí hñoñho community of Querétaro has played a prominent role in its creation, contributing a representation of unity and ancestral memory through traditional elements such as water, fire, earth, and wax. This altar not only pays tribute to the deceased but also highlights the aspiration towards peace in a world filled with conflicts.
The UN’s intention with this intervention is to echo a message of hope and unity in a world where more than 2 billion people live amid violence and conflict. The initiative also seeks to honor victims of armed conflicts, promoting a dialogue on peace.
Simultaneously, the Museum of Popular Art in Mexico City presents “Altar for peace and hope,” which combines popular art with modern features, emphasizing the importance of human rights and historical continuity. In addition, artisans from Huamantla, Tlaxcala, have contributed to the celebrations with an impressive sawdust carpet representing a dove of peace, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century and evokes harmony and environmental sustainability.
Day of the Dead stands out as a festival that transcends borders, sending a message about the preservation of collective memory and fraternity among peoples. The UN’s participation not only reinforces the cultural significance of this celebration, but also promotes a necessary debate on peace and the future of humanity amid the complexities of the modern world. With each altar and offering, the commitment to remembering, celebrating life, and advocating for a more just and peaceful world is renewed.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
