Graphic Designer & Creative Problem-Solver | Expert in Visual Storytelling & Brand Identity with an Emphasis on Diversity & Cultural Competency
For the digital marketers, social media managers, and those looking to celebrate diversity as November 1st & 2nd roll near, "Day of the Dead" is *not* exclusive to Mexico. Often, people laud the holiday as a "Mexican tradition" – which isn't wrong, per se. However, it's important that we recognize a few things: 🧡 It is celebrated by several other countries like El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Ecuador, and even Haiti 🕯️ The holiday goes by several different names, even within Mexico. Some examples include: Dia de los Muertos, Dia de Muertos, Dia de los Difuntos, Dia de los Finados 💀 It is NOT of "Aztec" origin, as many articles claim. While many of the most commercialized icons of the holiday are indeed of Nahua origin, the holiday itself is not exclusive to "the Aztecs". It was imposed on many indigenous communities by the Catholic Church before Mexico was ever established. 🏵️ It is NOT celebrated the same, even within Mexico. The use of cempasuchiles, the sugar skulls, even pan de muerto, is very regional and dependant on the community. Traditions vary by state, environment, neighborhood, and even by household. While Disney has popularized specific traditions, it is not universal and shouldn't be treated as such. Where Oaxaca might use marigolds, El Salvador uses colorful paper flowers. Where Ciudad de Mexico might use a cinnamon bread with "bones", Puebla uses bright pink sugar. At the end of the day, how you celebrate Dia de Muertos is up to you. But if you're going to honor the holiday as part of the marketing campaign, keep in mind what your goal is: Are you really looking to celebrate diversity and promote cultural education? Or are you looking to *appear* culturally aware, without worrying about the details. #diademuertos #diadelosmuertos #diversity #culture #latinx
