As families migrate to the United States and settle into their new homes, they become lost in their busy lifestyles resulting in the loss of traditions such as el Dia de los Muertos: an annual three-day celebration that honors the dead.
Silvia Gomez, East High School’s Bilingual Resource Specialist, and her beloved Latino Student Union decided it was time to bring back one of the most important traditions of the Mexican culture back to the lives of latinx people living in Madison.
On Saturday, November 5, East High School’s Latino Student Union will host their second annual Una Noche en Mexico: edicion Dia de los Muertos to bring Mexican culture and festivities to the Madison community.
“Our hope is that this event can bring the East High community a bit closer to the Mexican culture by using all our senses through music, food, and art,” Gomez commented.
The event will feature several performances and activities for people of all ages to enjoy. From traditional mexican folklore dances from El Ballet Folklórico de María Díaz and Danzas Aztecas de René Avila to art expos from local Madison artists, like Rodrigo Carapia. Authentic mexican food will also be available for purchase.
“Through cultural events like this we hope that the Madison community can help and invest in events such as ours to keep it going, bringing great shows to the general public. And to most of all, invest in the youth and see their immeasurable talent,” Gomez said.
Half of the funds raised from this event will go towards continuing a scholarship fund for East’s Latino Student Union created last year. The remainder of the funds will be used to cover the costs of educational conferences and field trips for LSU.
The entry fee is $5 for adults and children over the age of ten. Tickets can be purchased at the door on the day of the event. For those who are not able to attend but would still like to contribute can send in a check and make it payable to East High School Latino Student Union.
This piece was produced by a student reporter in the Madison365 Academy program. To learn more or support Madison365’s education programs, please visit madison365.org/academy.
