Tag: Day of the Dead

Spanish teacher Megan Cortes represents ‘Dia De Muertos’ through classroom ‘Ofrenda’

by Areli Hernandez Romero

‘Dia De Muertos’ or Day of the Dead, celebrated from Oct 28  to Nov 2, is an annual cultural tradition celebrated to remember loved ones who have passed away. It is a day filled with memories, gratitude, and love. This tradition has spread to various Latin American communities in the United States.

Heritage Spanish teacher Megan Cortes and her students have highlighted the importance of cultural education with their classroom ‘Ofrenda.’

Unlike many, Cortes emphasizes the idea of showcasing an ‘Ofrenda’ in her classroom as a way to educate her students about its poignant meaning.

“Although many of my students have ofrendas at home, not everyone practices this tradition. Furthermore, not everyone knows the meaning, traditions, and symbolism it has. Being able to display it interactively in class allows students to see firsthand what it is and what it symbolizes,” she said. 

Sophomore Arieslie Tejeda agreed with Cortes and finds her interactions helpful to those who don’t have the privilege to participate in these traditions at home. 

“I feel like it’s a good thing and it introduces me to new things I wouldn’t do at home. It’s just a safe place for everyone to be included,” Tejeda said. 

Senior Camila Levario agreed with Tejeda, appreciating Cortes’ involvement with her students.

“I like that she does that and how she always tries to make everyone feel included,” said Levario.

Cortes reflects by the bittersweet background of ‘Dia De Muertos’ and representation behind the Ofrenda.

“The ofrenda is a time for me to remember the special people in my life that are no longer with me. It is a way to honor all the wonderful things they meant to me. I think it also helps the grieving process that many face when they lose a loved one. It is a way we can feel closer to them.”

Looking forward, Cortes hopes for her students to understand the meaning of this new tradition evolving their own culture. 
“I hope students gain a deeper understanding of a tradition that is deeply embedded in their culture. Even if they have personal beliefs that don’t celebrate the Day of the Dead.”

Click on the photographs in the gallery below.

The Ofrenda neatly displays a diversity of vibrant colors on Oct 31. Megan Cortes along with her students filled the ofrenda with meaningful items like, “candles, sugar skulls, special bread, water, salt, marigolds and some of the loved one’s favorite foods.” Photo by Areli Hernandez.
Sophomore Arieslie Tejeda, whose family is from the Dominican-Republic commemorates Day of the Dead in different ways, “We celebrate it differently. Instead we go to their grave, clean it, and put fresh flowers to pay respects.” Photo by Areli Hernandez.
Senior Camila Levario arranged an Ofrenda at home in honor of her beloved father. “I did an Ofrenda at home for my dad. I placed his ashes, favorite things, a bible verse, and his photograph. So, he can cross ‘The Marigolds bridge” as some know it.” Photo by Areli Hernandez.
Senior Susan Ochoa, whose family is from Mexico, helped set up an Ofrenda in memory of her uncle, “We set up my tios favorite food, flowers, and my ‘Quince’ crown since he passed away and couldn’t make it to my day.” Photo by Areli Hernandez.
Megan Cortes wishes for her students to honor their heritage beyond the classroom, “I hope they gain a better understanding of its meaning and learn to appreciate a beautiful cultural tradition.” Photo by Areli Hernandez.

by jhshyphen