English

A Spiritual Reunion with Loved Ones

(Pictures/ Courtesy Servicios de La Raza/Pamela Ramirez)

FAMILIES SET UP THEIR OWN ALTARS AT THE RAZA PARK.

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado

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The celebration of Dia de los Muertos at La Raza Park was a momentous occasion that saw a heartwarming response from the community. Families gathered to set up their family altars, paying tribute to their ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. The event was a beautiful testament to the power of tradition, culture, and shared experiences.

Led by Nita González, who has dedicated herself to preserving this cherished tradition in Colorado for several decades, the event transcended mere festivity; it was a deeply meaningful ceremony. González aptly describes it as “a moment to honor our deceased ancestors, remember them, and welcome them back to Earth in a ceremonial way.” She emphasized that the Day of the Dead celebration is not about revelry or a Mexican Halloween but a gathering to embrace culture and ensure the tradition lives on.

Un Encuentro Espiritual con Seres Queridos

Nita González’s dedication to this event dates to the early ’80s when she introduced the celebration of Dia de los Muertos to Colorado. She recounted the humble beginnings, stating, “Students from the Tlatelolco School asked us not only to study this celebration but to practice it here.” Her journey to Mexico with a group of community elders to learn and seek permission from the ancestral practitioners of this celebration left her with a profound lesson about ancestry and the spirit world.

Over the years, the event has evolved with the support of various community groups and individuals who understand the importance of preserving their heritage. The Day of the Dead celebration at La Raza Park also encouraged the community to set up their own family altars, fostering a sense of togetherness and underscoring the significance of honoring one’s heritage and connecting with loved ones who have departed. The event stands as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving and passing down this tradition, keeping the spirit of Dia de los Muertos alive in the hearts of the community.