The Robert Crown Center was the site Saturday of Evanston’s annual Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) community celebration, a holiday widely observed throughout Latin America and the U.S. Latino community. This meaningful event was primarily organized by Latinos en Evanston North Shore (LENS), with support from the Evanston Public Library and Evanston Parks and Recreation.
Dia de los Muertos honors the lives of loved ones who have passed away, embracing the belief that their spirits return at the start of November to visit those who cherish their memories. In keeping with this tradition, families often build altars to honor those they remember.
At the event, a large, colorful altar was set up next to the Robert Crown Library, where residents could place photos of late loved ones. Fabiola Zdrubecky, president of LENS, shared that this was the fifth celebration the organization has sponsored. She noted that the commemorations typically feature flowers, offerings, and music to honor those who have passed. “We are receiving the souls through our offerings,” she explained.
In recent times, Evanston has experienced increased ICE activity, which has spread fear throughout the city’s Hispanic communities and led to the cancellation of some events. Zdrubecky acknowledged these challenges and emphasized that her organization aims to provide safe spaces for community gatherings.
The City of Evanston and the Robert Crown Center were very cooperative in enhancing security for the event. Evanston Police were stationed in the center’s parking lot during the celebration, while local private groups like Sanctuary Evanston were also present to provide security support if needed.
Mayra Moreno, Vice President of LENS, said that canceling the event was considered, especially after a highly publicized ICE incident occurred just a few blocks from Robert Crown the previous Friday. “There was a risk of cancelling, but all morning has been quiet,” she said. Ultimately, the organizers decided to proceed with the celebration.
A diverse crowd attended the event, which featured not only remembrance activities but also live music by a children’s cello group, storytelling, and a family-friendly movie. Mayor Daniel Biss was on hand to introduce the cello group, highlighting the community’s support for the event.
Attendees shared varied reasons for coming. Amanda, who preferred to be identified only by her first name, brought her children, Dahlia and Meena, so her family could “learn more about this festival and culture. We don’t have a lot of exposure” to such customs, she said.
Cindy Fey of Wilmette expressed her appreciation for the event’s occurrence despite the current climate, saying she was “glad the event was happening” but saddened by the atmosphere of fear now permeating the Latino community. She also noted that her favorite part of the celebration was Dia de los Angelitos, which commemorates children.
The Dia de los Muertos event at Robert Crown Center provided a meaningful space for remembrance, cultural celebration, and community solidarity in Evanston.
https://evanstonnow.com/celebration-held-in-remembrance-of-loved-ones/