(Zarco Guerrero) There are many cultures throughout the world that celebrate death. But no one celebrates death as lively and as colorful as in Mexico. Commonly, reflecting on the lives of those who have died is usually shown through mourning and internalizing the concept of mortality.
In contrast, in Mexico, and some central American countries, Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, is a full-out celebration, extravagant and flamboyant in style. Skeleton masks and costumes are limber and lively, just as the dearly departed once were. Dr. Lydia Otero:
(Dr. Lydia Otero) When you think of the Day of the Dead, you think of, you know—traditionally, you don't think about joy and fun, and, you know, something uplifting. And yet these masks force you to go there. It sets the mood of it not being a somber occasion, of being an occasion to celebrate life, right? Instead of celebrating—feeling bad and pondering death. But, celebrating the moments that you have here and celebrating life, which is a joyous event.
Special Thanks to Gateway for their support of this project.
Many thanks also to the University of Arizona Disability Resources Center for transcribing the tour episodes.
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