Día de los Muertos or “Day of the Dead,” which occurs from Nov. 1 to 2, is a Mexican holiday honoring the dead. It reunites and reinforces the connection between the living and our ancestors. Unlike in other cultures, Mexicans embrace death. The barrier between life and death is not as thick, and our deceased relatives are always around us. However, during Día de los Muertos, the barrier is especially thin, and the presence of our ancestors grows stronger than ever. Surrounded by our loved ones, both living and dead, Día de los Muertos is a time for celebration.
In dedication to Día de los Muertos and Latinx Heritage Month, which ended on Oct. 15, I have captured what these events mean to me through photography. Below is a collection of folk art, traditional garments, figurines, customs, and decorations passed down from my ancestors. —Jaxi Cohen