Within the framework of the celebrations for the Day of the Deadthe Youth Institute (Injuve), in collaboration with parents of the victims, set up a offering in it memorial of the New’s Divine nightclubin the Mayor Gustavo A. Madero.
From chopped paper to a path with marigold flowers, the interior of the memorial was decorated with 150 alfeñique, amaranth and chocolate skulls; 20 clay figurines; 300 small candles and 150 large candles that accompany the photos of the nine young people who lost their lives in this tragedy, along with 3 police officers.
“For us it is important because we know that the only thing they left us is a bad memory in this place,” Leticia Morales, mother of young Rafael Morales, told this newspaper.
For its assembly, the offering at the memorial had the participation of eight other relatives of victims. “There are nine of us, two people are sick. We had meetings where we participated giving our point of view. The goal was achieved and that makes me feel good about them who are no longer here,” Leticia commented.
The offering to the victims of the New’s Divine will remain open for your visit from October 30 to November 6from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
As part of the inauguration, young people participated in a bicycle ride in the vicinity of the memorial. Later it was projected memorial video “New’s Divine Never Again”.
Dance groups and mariachis also participated on the opening day, before closing the activities with a costume contest.
Within the framework of the celebrations for the #DayOfTheDeadhe @InjuveCDMX in collaboration with relatives of the victims, set up an offering at the New’s Divine memorial. 🕯️💀https://t.co/XN1BFkm9hC
🎥 @Mrcherry_tree pic.twitter.com/dzlk6t7x2R— @diario24horas (@diario24horas) October 31, 2024
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Interview: Reflecting on the Day of the Dead Offering for New’s Divine Nightclub Victims
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Thank you for joining us today. We’re here to discuss a significant event that took place in Mexico City—the offering set up by the Youth Institute in memory of the victims from the tragic New’s Divine nightclub incident. Joining us is cultural expert Dr. Elena Garcia, who specializes in Mexican traditions and the significance of Day of the Dead celebrations.
Dr. Elena Garcia: Thank you for having me. It’s an honor to share insights on such a meaningful occasion.
Editor: To start, could you explain the importance of the Day of the Dead in Mexican culture, especially in the context of remembering those we’ve lost?
Dr. Garcia: Absolutely. The Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a unique celebration where families honor their deceased loved ones. It’s a time when the veil between the living and the dead is believed to be thinnest, allowing the spirits to return to enjoy the offerings prepared for them. This particular memorial for the victims of the New’s Divine nightclub tragedy not only serves as a tribute but also provides a collective healing space for families impacted by such a devastating event.
Editor: The memorial was adorned with a variety of traditional elements, like marigolds and sugar skulls. Can you elaborate on their symbolism?
Dr. Garcia: Certainly! Marigolds, or cempasúchil, are integral to Day of the Dead celebrations. Their vibrant color is said to attract the souls of the dead to the offerings. The sugar skulls, known as alfeñique, represent the sweetness of life and the idea that death should not be feared. These elements, along with the candles and figurines used in the memorial, are meant to create a welcoming path for the spirits and celebrate their lives—much like the families have done for their loved ones in this case.
Editor: Leticia Morales, the mother of one of the victims, spoke about the “bad memory” left by the tragedy. How do you think such memorials help families confront their grief?
Dr. Garcia: That’s a profound question. Creating a memorial allows families to externalize their grief and transform a place of tragedy into one of remembrance and love. It acknowledges the pain while also celebrating the lives lost. Through this act, they forge a connection with their deceased loved ones and with each other, as demonstrated by the collaboration of the families in constructing this offering. It fosters a sense of community, resilience, and healing.
Editor: It’s heartening to see such collaboration among families. How do you think events like this influence younger generations in remembering and honoring history?
Dr. Garcia: Events like this play a crucial role in passing down cultural values and history. They engage younger generations, illustrating the importance of memory in collective identity. By witnessing their families honor those lost in tragic events, young people learn empathy, compassion, and the significance of cultural traditions. This, in turn, encourages them to participate in these rituals and explore their own interpretations of grief and remembrance.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Garcia, for sharing your valuable insights today. The offering at New’s Divine not only commemorates the lives lost but also strengthens community ties and cultural heritage.
Dr. Garcia: Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue to acknowledge and share these stories, as they remind us of our shared humanity and the importance of remembrance.