Ever since I was little I have had such pride in my culture, having been taught how to dance, speak, and celebrate my family’s traditions. I have always had a lot of pride and love for my country and my people.
Growing up here it has been so hard to connect with my roots, and ever since COVID, I have not been to Mexico. So I decided to bring a piece of it back here.
The Ofrenda is one of Latin America’s beautiful traditions. An Ofrenda is usually a table with multiple levels to the top, to symbolize stairs. We decorate the Ofrenda with marigolds, papel picado, sugar skulls, and candles.
On the Ofrenda we put pictures of our loved ones and their favorite foods and drinks. We believe that our loved ones who have passed come back on the Day of the Dead to visit us and enjoy their favorite meals set out for them. They say that if you are to eat the food left on the Ofrenda after the Day of the Dead it would be flavorless because the spirits have sucked all the flavor out of it.
I have always loved this day because of how beautiful it is — it shows that not even death can separate us.
I ran for Diversity and Inclusion representative to make a difference at OVS. I wanted to celebrate all the cultures we have here at OVS, making them as fun and interactive as I can. Whether it’s in the IMCA or the Student Council, I will do everything in my power to make OVS more diverse. Teaching and learning about other cultures is one of my favorite things to do and, paired with my passion, will hopefully make this year an amazing one.