Mikiztli in Mesa – A Dia de Los Muertos Celebration!
Posted on Nov 3, 2016
Mikiztli [mee-keesh-tleeh] and its history can be found tracing far back into Anáhuac, the original name of pre-colonial Meso America.
Before the arrival of the Europeans, the indigenous peoples had no word for death in the Náhuatl language. We viewed death as a transition from this life to the next, called Mikiztli, a transformation or letting go.
Though many of us may be familiar with the colonial term of Day of the Dead and its customs, it does not fully express the history and meaning of what the Mexica called Mihcailhuitl, ~ A Gathering of the Spirits ~ a Celebration of Mikiztli.
To do justice to this ancient tradition and to honor our ancestors, we celebrate the iconic imagery and profound meaning of this poetic metaphor with community expressions of music, dance and the extensive use of the Calaca mask.
So, please join us for free performances, art activities, giant puppets, local art and a community altar this Sunday, November 6th at Pioneer Park as we come together to celebrate Mikiztli in Mesa!
We also strive to increase accessibility, build new audiences, encourage new partnerships, and promote and celebrate the richness of our Latino cultural offerings through a variety of exhibits, special events and educational programs.
Cultural Coalition, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to foster community engagement and provide unique cultural programs in Arizona.
Under the leadership of Zarco and Carmen Guerrero, the Coalition has been organizing Día de los Muertos programming and activities for over 30 years throughout the state.
Our goal is to celebrate the Indo-Latino community with a culturally relevant, family friendly programs that address our diverse cultural experiences and traditions, while fostering innovative and original performances.
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