Yamely Chavez Kennedy is selling cempasúchil for the first time at Colima Market, helping Central Oregon Latinos celebrate family members for Día de los Muertos.
At Colima Market, the smell of cempasúchil fills the air.
Yamely Chavez Kennedy has introduced cempasúchil to her market, enriching the local Mexican community's Día de los Muertos celebrations. This vibrant flower symbolizes remembrance for those who have passed.
Cultural Significance of Día de los Muertos.
Día de los Muertos, an ancient celebration with roots in Indigenous traditions, has evolved into a culturally rich holiday that honors the deceased while fostering community bonds. The blend of Catholicism and traditional Indigenous themes embodies the resilience of cultural identities.
Challenges for Local Businesses.
While Yamely has been successful at Colima Market over the last decade, she faces challenges with increasing competition from larger supermarkets. This competition raises concerns about sustainability for small business owners like her during festival seasons.
Community Engagement and Celebration.
The community is rallying around the tradition, as evidenced by the influx of customers seeking to partake in festivities by purchasing flowers and other traditional items. This engagement underlines the significance of shared cultural practices in maintaining a strong community identity.
