By Caitlyn Morral
Staff Writer
St. Bonaventure is celebrating Latin American culture this month in honor of Día de los Muertos, or “Day of the Dead.”
In the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts, an Ofrenda altar, or a private altar for loved ones who have passed on, will be installed until next weeek in The Loft in honor of the holiday.
Celebrated annually on Nov. 1, Día de los Muertos originated in Mexico and honors deceased loved ones. Traditionally, the festivities among those who celebrate it include food and parties. They also entail the construction of an Ofrenda, which is being brought to the university, said sophomore undecided major Chris Galarza.
The Latin American Student Organization, (LASO), is the student group making the Ofrenda. President of LASO, senior English and Spanish double major Azarias Pérez, is excited to be able to bring this aspect of Latin American culture to Bonaventure, he said.
“We wanted to relive a similar installation, as well as a mass in the chapel, which we had last year in regards to this holiday,” said Pérez. “Although this day is not closely important to me, I understand how important it is to a lot of people and to the Latin American culture as a whole. This is one reason why I was more than excited to remain true to this holiday, and to have LASO take part in this installation.”
Pérez also said he invites students to participate in the custom by contributing their own photographs and memorabilia. Students can bring them to the front desk where, they will then be added to the Ofrenda. There is also a display being presented on the first floor of the library that students can see.
For some students, the Latin American holiday has a valuable place in their lives. Galarza shared how significant the holiday is to him, especially through celebration.
“It is important to me because it is a big part of my Latin American heritage and my roots,” said Galarza. “Celebrating the dead during this time is something that is very special to me, because I have the chance to remember my loved ones in a festive manner.”
morralce14@bonaventure.edu
