Week 9: Dia de los Muertos

November 1, 2010:  Diversity is any kind of variety that makes our world a better place.  

One characteristic of American culture is that as a people we are always looking ahead.  This spirit keeps us moving forward and is a part of what foreigners admiringly refer to as “American optimism.”  On the other hand, how many ways can you think of in which we take the time to honor influences from our past, such as our family ancestors? 

This week, people from Mexico and other Latin American countries will be celebrating Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.  This is a joyous holiday marked by parties and processions, where friends and family come together to pray for loved ones who have died.  People will visit family gravesites so that they can be cleaned and decorated.  Picnics often follow, sometimes well into the night.  Offerings of food, sugar skulls, and orange marigolds are traditional.  The day is a wonderful reminder to all of us to give thanks to those who came before us.  

Remember, you don’t have to travel as far as Mexico to find diversity.  There are hundreds of opportunities to celebrate diversity right here at your school.  Find one today!