SXU Celebrates Dia de los Muertos

Dia de los Muertos is a Mexican holiday celebrated throughout Mexico and by people of Mexican heritage. The multi-day holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to remember and pray for those who have died and to support their spiritual journeys. Saint Xavier University (SXU) is proud to be recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and to continue the Mercy mission of inspiring ongoing diversity and cultural innovation. Coming together, the SXU community is delighted at the opportunity to once more spread the cultures of others.

Unidos, in partnership with Campus Ministry and Latino/Latin American Studies, has built an altar for the dead in honor of the annual Day of the Dead celebration. On November 1 and 2, all are invited to participate and contribute to the altar standing in the main lobby of Warde Academic Center. During the week, individuals are welcome to leave photos or mementos of loved ones who have passed. Although Dia de los Muertos is a Mexican holiday with indigenous and Catholic elements, all are welcome to commemorate their departed friends on family.

The altar was constructed on Monday, October 29 through the artistic contributions of the SXU community. On November 2, from noon to 2 p.m., student artists will take to the Wiseman Student Lounge and offer individuals the chance to transform themselves into calaveras via face painting, taking on the icon appearance of the traditional skulls. At 2 p.m., the SXU community is then encouraged to join in a blessing for the departed loved ones and explore the meaning behind the cultural tradition of the Day of the Dead.

For more information, contact Amanda Lopez, associate professor of history, at 773-298-5238 or at alopezFREESXU.

---