An elaborate Day of the Dead altar now brightens Illinois Valley Community College’s main atrium. Flickering candles, cherished photos, and handwritten notes line the display, inviting students and staff to honor loved ones who’ve passed. The tradition, rich in symbolism, offers a shared space for reflection and remembrance. Participants say the altar not only preserves their personal and family memories but also creates a bridge between diverse backgrounds among the campus community. Organizers hope the observance inspires meaningful conversations and deepens understanding of cultural heritage, demonstrating how a centuries-old custom continues to resonate in contemporary college life. To hear more on this topic, listen to IVCC’s recent podcast at https://soundcloud.com/ivcceagles/ivcc-pulse-day-of-the-dead.
“Those who have passed are never truly gone – they are in the stories we tell. The altars are a way to stay in touch with our ancestors and pass those traditions on,” said student Valerie Valdes of Mendota.
“We work hard to keep her memory alive, which I believe is the true meaning of this activity. Sharing our grief gives us a chance to place that hurt somewhere. Realizing we can lean on each other for support helps us feel not so alone,” Slaight said.
Building a mini-altar in her high school class a couple of years ago helped Nunez face her loss for the first time. “That altar brought me so much joy, which is why I wanted to create one this year at home. Day of the Dead reminds me how beautiful and short life is, and how grateful we are for the time we had with someone.”
Nunez says the altar “reminds me how many people like me there are.” Some of her friends who are not Hispanic have embraced the tradition. “The altars we made in high school – a lot of them kept theirs!”