EPIC High School: Celebrating Dia de los Muertos 

FIELD’s EPIC de Cesar Chavez High School held its second annual Dia de los Muertos celebration on October 31st. The celebration was full of color, symbolism, and traditional practices for the students and staff members who attended. 

“This event gave students and staff members a space to remember loved ones who have passed away and an opportunity to share their experience and cultural practices,” said Juan Carlos Vieyra, the EPIC teacher who coordinated the event. “Our students were very positive about the event and told me how great it turned out this year.” 

One of the highlights of the day was the Dia de los Muertos altar, which was built by students, teachers, and staff members. It was decorated with personal items and portraits of their loved ones. There was also a popular facepainting stand, a backdrop to take pictures, a performance by Aztec dancers, and a DJ spinning great tunes. 

Students and staff members came outfitted in their cultural dress, with some showing up in their Catrina or Catrin outfits with painted faces.  

“The history of Dia de los Muertos goes back thousands of years to the indigenous peoples of Mexico, particularly the Aztecs,” explained Vieyra. “They believed in the cyclical nature of life and death and honored their ancestors with elaborate rituals and offerings. When Spanish colonization occurred, these practices blended with Catholic traditions, leading to the celebration we recognize today of life, memory, and love.” 

Thank you to all our amazing EPIC teachers, instructional assistants, and students who helped to organize the event and donate the food. Participating teachers included Dr. Montelongo, Mrs. Ramirez, Mr. Garcia, Mr. Gomez, Mr. Lopez, Mr. Angel, Mr. Jaimes, Mrs. Mendez, Ms. Martinez, Ms. Carrillo, Mrs. Romero, and Mrs. Perez.  

Also, EPIC’s Administration helped with the purchasing of sweet bread and hot chocolate. It also provided a $25 donation for each teacher for classroom decoration. Special thanks to Mr. Quinonez, Dr. Nora Dominguez, and Dr. Tamar Asatryan from the administration for their assistance. 

Check out photos from the celebration here.