Dia de los Muertos: Honoring those who have saved lives through donation

The Meaning of Día de los Muertos

Día de los Muertos (Day of Death), has become a vibrant celebration that brings together culture, tradition, and community. This Mexican holiday honors and remembers loved ones who have passed away, celebrating their lives with color, music, and offerings. Rather than seeing death as an end, Día de Muertos views it as part of the natural cycle of life. Every year, on November 1st and 2nd, Mexican and Latino communities across Colorado create altars filled with marigold flowers, candles, photos, and favorite foods of their loved ones, welcoming their spirits back home in a beautiful act of remembrance.

How to Build an Altar and the Meaning of the Offerings

The altar is the heart of Día de los Muertos, and across Mexico. To build one, families choose a special space and create different levels representing the sky, earth, and the underworld. Each element on the altar holds deep meaning water quenches the spirit’s thirst, salt purifies, candles light the way, and marigold flowers guide souls with their bright color and scent. Photos, paper decorations, sugar skulls, and favorite dishes like pan de muerto or tamales complete the offering. Traditionally, November 1st honors children—known as “angelitos”—and November 2nd is dedicated to adults.

Donor Alliance and Día de los Muertos in Colorado

During this meaningful celebration, Donor Alliance joined the Latino community at various Día de Muertos events in Colorado with organization like Amigos  de Mexico, Aurora Public Libraries, Servicios de la Raza y Mexican Cultural Center, supporting families as they honored their loved ones and remembered the organ and tissue donors who gave the gift of life. As part of these celebrations, Donor Alliance provided commemorative cards where community members  wrote the names of their loved ones and placed them on the altars as a heartfelt tribute.

Día de Muertos reminds us that love and memory transcend time. Just as we honor those who have passed, we can give life to others through organ donation. You can Check the Box Yes and register as an organ, eye and tissue donor at your local DMV or online at donatelifecolorado.org. Because remembering can also mean giving life.