Story by: Lev Cardenas, Staff Writer
Photo by: Viviana Valencia, Editor-In-Chief
In honor of the Mexican tradition, Dia de los Muertos, Cypress College is hosting a community ofrenda, or altar, on the first floor of the FASS building and at the entrance photography department in TE-1, second floor, building 10. The ofrenda, set up by photography professor Aydinaneth Ortiz, serves as a space for students, faculty, and staff to pay their respects to loved ones who have passed away.
Dia de los Muertos, celebrated annually from Nov. 1 to Nov. 2, is a time for family and friends to gather, honor and pay respect to the spirits of the deceased. Altars, known as ofrendas, are commonly created in homes and at cemeteries, adorned with framed photos, favorite foods, beverages, and symbolic items like marigold flowers and Calaveras, or skulls. These offerings are meant to welcome back the spirits of the departed and celebrate their lives.
“I highly encourage students to put photos and articles,” said Ortiz, “and food such as bread.”
The community ofrenda at Cypress College, invites all students to contribute by adding framed photos or items that represent their loved ones. In addition, Ortiz is offering photo frames for those who need them.
Professor Kati Angelov, who is originally from Hungary, shared her thoughts on the tradition. “I am Hungarian and we have a similar holiday, so for me this makes me super happy,” she said “This is where our cultures intersect.”
Ortiz shared her own thoughts on the tradition. “I think it’s a great holiday to honor our loved ones,” she said, “it helps build community and brings people together.”
The ofrenda will be up from Oct. 27 to Nov. 7.
Photo Illustration Courtesy Photography Club
