MINNEAPOLIS — The atmosphere was colorful and vibrant as more than 100 people paraded into El Colegio High School on Saturday morning, following traditional Aztec dancers. The event was part of the Day of the Dead, or Día de Muertos, a time when families honor and remember their departed relatives through communal gatherings and altars.
It’s a way of greeting our ancestors into our homes, bringing them back into our lives, even if they’re not physically here but spiritually, said Daniela Rosales, a senior at the bilingual school hosting the event. This year’s observances took on added significance within the U.S. Latino communities, contrasting the unyielding immigration policies enforced by the Trump administration.
Many participants expressed concerns that fears stemming from deportation might overshadow the celebrations; however, attendees showed remarkable resilience, stating that these rituals provided a much-needed sense of community and pride. Justin Ek, one of the Mankato Day of the Dead festival founders, emphasized, We decided we can’t cave. Our cultural celebrations are what we need to fill our souls for what’s to come.
The indigenous artistic tradition incorporates art and community spirit, demonstrating how Day of the Dead acknowledges ancestral ties, grief, and joy intertwined with cultural expressions. Schools and local artists have contributed to these gatherings, marking a spiritual significance amid the backdrop of socio-political challenges faced by immigrant families.
In recent years, as the festivities expanded, they also began to highlight immigrant struggles, memorializing those lost to violence, social injustices, or those who have died attempting to cross borders. This blend of homage with social statement empowers communities to honor their past while standing resilient amid fears, uniting individuals through a common cause of resilience against adversity.
