Nearly half of Morton East students celebrate Día de los Muertos.

Every year, students in language classes celebrate by creating ofrendas for those who have passed on.  This year, there were over 100 ofrendas exhibited in the Knowledge Center the first week of November.  According to Google Overview AI, Día de los Muertos is a holiday celebrated on November 1–2 to honor and remember deceased loved ones through joyful traditions like building ofrendas with their belongings and favorite foods. These ofrendas are items we put so that our loved ones can cross and come to the world of the living. Pan de Muerto is a sweet traditional bread baked as an offering for the spirits. For Día de los Muertos, people use vibrant colors, lively music, and flavorful foods to celebrate life and help guide the spirits of loved ones home with their rich aromas.

In a random survey of 57 Morton East High School students, 25 students (or 43%) said they did celebrate Día de los Muertos.

“I think it’s really cool to show love for those who are not with us. For example, putting food and their favorable things on display,” said sophomore student Layla Valencia.

It’s true some people celebrate Día de los Muertos for the traditions and see it as just that, but some also see it for its meaning.

“Because for my loved one—to help them cross over,” said junior Julian Palma.

It’s nice to know what people celebrate it for, but it’s also hard to celebrate it in the first place because of ICE.

“Of course, I think ICE makes it hard because a lot of family can’t go out and about because they’re scared,” said dean Ms. Salandra Crockett.

But even with ICE around, that still doesn’t stop people from celebrating. In fact, some believe that ICE won’t change a thing.

“ICE being around won’t affect it. The people who celebrate aren’t gonna be stopped by ICE because they are passionate about it,” said sophomore Jessica Vilches.

And that’s just the point; some people won’t let Día de los Muertos be stopped that easily because of their pure passion for it.

“Yes, I am celebrating because it’s a way to honor our loved ones who have passed away and keep our traditions alive,” said Spanish teacher Ms. Ortiz.