The Office of Student Life offered a campus-wide ofrenda for all BC students to commemorate their loved ones.

Located in the front lobby of The Office of Student Life, an altar was displayed for Day of the Dead from Oct. 28 – Nov. 4, during regular office hours.

The word “Ofrenda”, which is in Spanish, translates to “commemorate the souls of loved ones in the family”.

The ofrenda was brought to life with flowers, candles, bread, and sugar skulls.

An ofrenda typically has the loved one’s picture along with their favorite foods, personal items, marigold flowers, candles and pan de muerto (bread of the dead).

Día de los Muertos is a celebration of life, death and family for the Hispanic community, but everyone is welcome to take part of this beautiful tradition; and remember their loved ones who have passed.

This idea was suggested by Veronica Slayton, the Student Conduct Liaison, who has experienced great loss in her life. She wanted to have this display for students to feel connected to their loved ones who have passed.

With the passing of a loved one, it is important to still feel connected to them and keep their spirit alive; to remember them.

Having this altar for those who don’t have a place to make one is important for students to have.

With Bakersfield College having an 80% Hispanic demographic, it’s important to have such meaningful traditions be kept alive at a school in which they attend.

This event was open to the entire school and allowed students to remember their loved ones who have passed.