Long Beach City College continued the tradition with a Dia De Los Muertos event with community gatherings, face paintings, poetry readings, cultural performances, offering contests and a community parade.
Dia De Los Muertos was celebrated for two days in a row in remembrance for passed loved ones who have left an impact on many lives.
LBCC wants the community to know that culture is a part of what makes up the foundation of its campus.
“I hope for the community to embrace this rich tradition and to experience the event like a celebration in “familia.” I hope for the event to allow community members to immerse themselves in the experience,” Associate Dean of Student Support Services Sonia De La Torre-Iniguez said.
On the night of Dia de Los Muertos, altars were placed around the courtyard with pictures of loved ones.
Around the altars displayed different offerings that settled about the shrine such as favorite foods, beverages, pictures or memorabilia.
“This tradition becomes the focal piece for honoring our loved one who have passed and should really embody who they were,” Iniguez said.
The offering contests involved departments and students who established their own mini ofrendas and see who had the most memorable contribution.
The movie “Macario” was shown to the public, which demonstrated the significance of Dia de Los Muertos.
The event also had a cultural performance by the LBCC dance department that the public enjoyed.
“We really want this to be a community event, we pushed it to the high schools and inviting families as well and of course LBCC students so hopefully we see them all in the loop,” LBCC Enrollment Specialist Linda Olmos said.
Event decorator Amber Orosco, also known for her famous costume as Catrina Carlotta, was the queen of the night alongside the highest altar of the event. Many attendees were fascinated and excited to take pictures with Orosco dressed as Catrina Carlotta.
“We encouraged many people to come dressed up too for Dia de Los Muertos,” Orosco said.
The community parade highlighted the night. Character Catrina paraded around the courtyard with children who also celebrated the night with her.
This event will not be the last at the college. LBCC has expanded their multicultural celebrations for diversity and equality.
Cultural events create awareness and fairness to all students who represent different cultures on campus.