There are many reasons why we should teach about Día de los Muertos in class–an amazing and truly rich holiday that shares so much of the target cultures’ products, practices, and perspectives. From a social justice perspective, I work hard to make sure that my students get a solid foundation in Día de los Muertos, because many students, prior to taking a Spanish language class, may have very scant knowledge of celebration. Some walk away thinking that it is the “Mexican Halloween” (direct quote from a former student). As agents of change, we must help students “examine diversity in social, cultural, political and historical contexts rather than in ways that are superficial or oversimplified” (Social Justice Standards, 2018 p. 3). Also, the act of exploring Día de los Muertos can help students “respectfully express curiosity about the history and lived experiences of others and will exchange ideas and beliefs in an open-minded way” (Social Justice Standards, 2018 p. 3). The Social Justice Standards is divided into 4 categories. Are there any others that you see Día de los Muertos being a good fit for? See graphic below:
Also, the act of exploring Día de los Muertos can help students “respectfully express curiosity about the history and lived experiences of others and will exchange ideas and beliefs in an open-minded way” (Social Justice Standards, 2018 p. 3).
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-Allison Perryman, The Cultural Classroom
The Hard Questions
If/When parents complain that Día de los Muertos doesn’t fit or match their spiritual beliefs, I encourage teachers to remind parents/caretakers that they are teaching culture and NOT attempting to indoctrinate their child into a particular belief system. It is important for children to understand other practices so that they can understand other perspectives.
It is important for children to understand others’ practices so that they can understand others’ perspectives.
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-Allison Perryman, The Cultural Classroom
One of My Favorite DDLM Activities
One of my favorite Día de los Muertos activities is creating an ofrenda. One year, my Spanish department created a massive ofrenda for everyone to contribute to. I placed my grandmother’s picture on it–she had passed a year ago and I still hadn’t dealt fully with the trauma & sadness of it all. When I put it on the altar, it was a very cleansing experience. Several students reported happiness in being able to recognized loved ones (even pets) who had passed–it was like a way to honor their memory.
I offer a similar altar building activity (options: individual/virtual/in-person) in my TpT store and explore the concept of the ofrenda in different resources. Below, I have a FREE download for you from a section of my Digital Webquest! This download is on ofrendas, and actually tours an authentic museum dedicated to ofrendas. Check it out. Let me know what you think!
Un abrazo enorme,
Allison
email: theculturalclassroomtpt@gmail.com
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