At the end of a hidden alley, residents of Jackson Heights gather during these dates to build a small altar where people from the community can remember their loved ones on the Day of the Dead.
“We like that the people of the community learn and the most beautiful thing is that the people of the community like it. They like to come and put their picture of themselves that they loved. They like to come and share,” says Violeta Morales, a neighbor of the place.
People of different nationalities and ages come to this activity to be part of this Mexican tradition, which is also welcomed by other immigrants, such as Óscar Escobar of Colombian origin: “I join this celebration because it seems very beautiful, we don’t have it So, one supports the community. And they make their altar, each one brings a photo of the person who died at home. “
This altar, located within this community garden that was once a private cemetery, is decorated with offerings such as water, food, candles and flowers for each deceased family member.
Nula, of Irish origin, came to post the photographs of her mother and father: “This is my father, Jorge. He died in 2015. She is my mother Josephine, she died in 2014. I have a tea bag. She she loves tea all day, in the morning she drinks tea. I have a tea bag for her. ”
The celebration is also an opportunity for children born in this country to continue connected with their roots.
“I have three children and they were born in this country, this their country and the tradition. Here is Halloween and asking for sweets and for them it is also fun [[white flash]]but if they need to learn from their roots, which is the Day of the Dead, “Morales details.
After bringing the photos and offerings of their loved ones to the altar, residents made their tour of 34th Avenue along with costumed children celebrating Halloween.
Jim Burke, founder of the Open Street Initiave Ends organization, comments: “There were so many children in the streets greeting me. I felt like a Hollywood star, the children were super happy to see someone in costume.”
The activity was possible thanks to the support of the Together We Can organization and the Coalition of Open Streets of 34th Avenue.
Attendees enjoyed the tour while maintaining social distancing.
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