aerial view of Western's campus at night, with golden lights surrounded by dark trees

Community Día de los Muertos celebration set for Nov. 1

The Simpson Intercultural Center at Whatcom Community College, in partnership with the Office of Student Life & Development, WCC Latine Studies Program, and WWU Multicultural Student Services, will be hold its annual Día de los Muertos celebration event on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 4-7 p.m. in the Syre Auditorium on the WCC campus.

THIS YEAR’S PROGRAM WILL FEATURE:

  • Keynote speaker, Yosimar Reyes, who is the current Santa Clara County Poet Laureate and was named the 2024 Creative Ambassador by the City of San Jose. A writer, poet, and performer, Reyes is widely recognized for his compelling storytelling and exploration of the undocumented and queer experience.
  • Performances by Danza Eterna de WWU, a student-led and self-taught dance group, who have been showcasing traditional Mexican folk dancing since 2009, learning new styles from different regions of Mexico. They are a friendly, inclusive community that values learning, connection, and cultural celebration.
  • Closing out with Aporto Versado, a local groupo sierreño from Skagit County. Angel Hernandez-Martinez is the requinto and was the chair of Latinx Men in Higher Education before graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering this past June. Aporto Versado has performed at weddings, Quinceañeras, and community events such as the Low Rider Show at WWU.

This event is open to the entire community—all are welcome! We will open the event with a free meal, followed by our keynote speaker and performances.

Lastly, we are still in need of day-of volunteers to assist us with the event. Please sign up at the following link if you are able to help: DDLM 2025 Volunteer List - Google Sheets