WHEREAS, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a holiday that originated in pre-Columbian Mexico, where it is still celebrated today and has since expanded to countries all over the world through immigration; and
WHEREAS, Día de los Muertos serves as a Memorial celebration to recognize and honor loved ones who have passed away, and to see that they are never forgotten; and
WHEREAS, Día de los Muertos is shrouded in duality, from painting only half of one’s face, symbolizing the quick passage from life to death, to the eye-catching marigold flowers said to guide the spirits to their altars through their vibrant colors and scent; and
WHEREAS, local Hispanic businesses promote Día de Los Muertos through selling marigolds, face paints, crafts, decorations, pan de Muertos (bread of the dead), and tamales, enjoyed by the living as much as the dead; and
WHEREAS, Una Mano Amiga has decorated a Día de los Muertos Altar at Trolley Square, creating a socially distanced opportunity for visitors to view a window display honoring the loss of family members, friends, and community heroes, filled with some of their favorite foods, trinkets, photos, and regalia of their past activities; and
WHEREAS, Una Mano Amiga is honoring loved ones who passed away due to the coronavirus (COVID-19); some of whom were first responders; and
WHEREAS, Salt Lake City residents, businesses, and employees are encouraged to take the opportunity to learn about Mexican culture and celebrate with loved ones both past and present.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Erin Mendenhall, Mayor of Salt Lake City, proclaim November 1st and 2nd:
Día de los Muertos Days in Salt Lake City
To view an electronic copy of the signed proclamation, click here.