Dia de Los Muertos in Pacoima is noted for its pageantry with impressive artwork and large-sized installations — but what is especially noted is its gathering of the community.
This year, the entrance was especially meaningful with a large Dodger blue colored calaca with the words “In memory of Fernando Valenzuela,” his smiling image adhered to the helmet of the artwork. A pathway of marigolds known as cempasúchil, led to the many ofrendas (altars) set up.
The office of City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez, a main sponsor for the event said Dia de Los Muertos was her “favorite community event”. She proudly announced to the crowd that she was from Pacoima and praised the community for reflecting its beauty. “Look what Pacoima can bring,” she said.
Throughout the day, on stage, there was a large digital photo montage of community members who passed away. Local residents contributed to the photos on display.
Among the many people who sat for hours next to their ofrendas – filled with traditional offerings and photos were Rosemary Rodriguez and Alma Espiritu from Our Lady of Peace Catholic School in North Hills.
Rodriguez, the Director of the church’s pre-school said their ofrenda held photos from the families and staff members at the parish school. It included a photo of one of their teachers who had lost her battle with cancer. Rodriguez herself placed photos of her parents who she lost during the pandemic. “My father had dementia and my mother died from COVID”, she shared.
She appreciated seeing the tribute to Fernando Valenzuela who she said was from her father’s hometown and what impressed her most was seeing all of the people in the community who were there who came out to honor their loved ones.
She said people took their time to see the altars including Monica Rodriguez who visited each one and told her she was impressed by the crafted papel picado that had the parish name etched in.
Everyone could agree said Rodriguez, “Pacoima is a beautiful town and seeing all of the families out there, was touching.”