San Marcos’ indigenous mermaid, Sirena del Rio has made a splash at the San Marcos Public Library with her education activations revolving the Día de los Muertos holiday. Although her community ofrenda comes down today, the memories of those who passed will still hold in the hearts of their loved ones.
The community ofrenda was the largest of it’s kind in San Marcos and was on display during the beginning of November. Spanning over three tables guests visiting the ofrenda were encouraged to bring a photo of their loved ones who have passed in order to be honored. Paper butterflies were avaible for anyone interested in writing the name of a deceased loved one to be honored during this sacred holiday.
“It is believed that the butterflies and marigolds assist the way to the afterlife and that is why their color is bright orange,” Sirena said.
Sirena has been teaching this during her “Death and Dying” bilingual children series at the SMPL where children have been participating and sharing pics, memories and stories of their past loved ones including their siblings, abuelitos, and even their pets. Sirena closed each story time reminding the children that our loved ones always live in our hearts.
