Texas A&M University – Kingsville is embracing culture and diversity by hosting a friendly competition to see which club or organization can showcase the best Day of the Dead altar.
On Nov. 1, the streets of many Latin American countries are filled with parades, highlighting the traditions of “Day of the Dead.”
One of the most iconic symbols for Day of the Dead is an altar, usually consisting of a variety of things, ranging from flowers to your loved one’s favorite dish.
Organizations will be displaying their altars in Sam Fore Hall. The winning organization or club will receive $100 towards their funds.
“It’s important to recognize the people who influence today. Several public figures have paved the way for upcoming generations leaving a legacy behind,” said Ashley Gonzalez, a Speech Communications major.
The inspiration for the event was two-fold.
“As part of the Spanish Honor Society, this idea was inspired from our culture. A majority of us in Kingsville are Hispanic and Day of the Dead is something most of us can relate to. However Day of the Dead goes deeper than just altars, it is a time to honor and remember our loved ones,” said Neiry Sifuentes, a Spanish major student.
“It is great activity for people to get exposed to the Hispanic culture and perhaps even learn a little of our culture,” said Guadalupe Perez Nino, a Spanish major.
Despite the sugar skulls and white faces, “Day of the Dead” is not intended to be a spooky holiday at all.
Day of the Dead offers a platform for many people to honor and remember their loved ones.
It is believed that on Nov. 1 the souls of deceased loved ones are able to leave heaven to reunite with their family.
The winner of the Day of the Dead altar compeition will be announced on Nov. 1 by the Sigma Delta Pi and the Language and Literature department.
