Rotaract and Rotary Create Dia de Muertos Ofrenda

By Robin Loving

For people in some countries, death is mourned. No doubt it is emotionally difficult to lose our beloveds, but in Mexico, families and friends gather to celebrate their dearly departed in a colorful expression of altars of tribute. 

This year, President-elect Jose de Anda, who helped to found and then presided over the local Rotaract Club of younger Rotarians, connected our club with that one to create an alter in tribute to friends and family members of both our clubs. Between the two clubs, 18 people contributed to the development of an ofrenda (altar), not counting those who donated for its expenses nor the City’s employees who brought flowers for its use.

The fellow who led this effort for Rotaract was Luis Carbajo, who said, “We appreciate the designer of the altar, who incorporated food, flowers and seeds to honor our dearly departed. Juapi made the design, including various symbols of our indigenous as well as symbols from today’s religions. This syncretism connected cultures through the ages. We are grateful for all who participated in whatever way.”

Enjoy these photos and join in the fun next year!