By Laura Lopez | Workshop Coordinator
At El Arca in Querétaro, we celebrate the Day of the Dead (November 2nd) as a way to honor and keep alive the memory of those who are no longer with us. Every year, our workshop fills with colors, smells and emotions, in an atmosphere where we express remembrance into art and community.
For many of our beneficiaries, this date holds a very special meaning. Such is the case of Alberto Arzate, who eagerly awaits the Day of the Dead to place his mother’s photograph on the altar. By doing so, Alberto remembers her with love—it is his way of showing affection and commemorating the one who was by his side for so many years.
This year, we also honor a very dear and key person to our community, Alberto Parás, who passed away few months ago. He, along with his wife and several close friends founded our community 26 years ago. He remained an active member of the board until two years ago and stayed connected until the very end.
Each and every one of the beneficiaries contributed something from the workshop in which they participate. In the arts workshop some created little skulls using recycled materials and others paper flowers. Meanwhile in the bakery, beneficiaries prepared food and special bread, “pan de muerto” to place on the altar.
Every flower, every skull, and every pan de muerto was chosen with purpose. Cinthya Ávila, the coordinator of the arts workshop, taught us the meaning of each element on the altar: the flower that guides, the light that accompanies, and the bread that unites. In this way, we understand that this tradition not only honors those who have departed but also brings us together as a community.
Creating this altar each year gives us a sense of belonging—it reminds us that we are part of something greater: a community that loves, remembers, and dreams of a more inclusive future. Because those who are no longer here believed in a world where everyone could shine, and so do you, dear friends who believe in our mission and contribute to the well being and growth of every single member of the community.
Our deep gratitude to each one of you,
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By Araceli Bravo | Community Leader
By Mireille Kheirallah | Coordinator of crowd funding
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