Symphany Valencia laid out yellow and purple flowers, incense and candles to attract the spirits of her ancestors. Not only was the act a way to share the cultural tradition of Día de los Muertos in the South Side community, but it also served as a remembrance of an unborn child.
Friday marked the start of the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos, the first day of which specifically honors children who have passed away. The day holds great meaning and reflection for Valencia, who chose to have an abortion two years ago.
“As someone who has had an abortion and wants to still honor that memory, still honor that energy, still give that recognition, because energy doesn’t disappear,” Valencia said. “So why not create a happy, healing space?”
Valencia’s nonprofit, Spiritus Vitae, hopes to inspire healing and wellness through art, music, movement and nature. She hopes she can use her own abortion to connect with others and cultivate a space where people can mourn and reflect without feeling ashamed. Valencia named her unborn daughter Hope to symbolize the hope that she has for her future.
“I wouldn’t have been able to do this if I’d had her,” she said.
Eric Hood, Valencia’s partner of four years, did the lighting and sound production at the event. He noted that he was there for Valencia as moral support during the abortion process.
For Hood, the celebration is about “being reminded to have a positive outlook on it … to mourn and think about lost ones without feeling like they’re just completely gone.”
Valencia’s event was hosted in partnership with Burghers Brewing’s South Side location. Music filled the chilly November air as people mingled over an art table, photo booth and the oferenda. An oferenda (offering table) is a typical part of Día de los Muertos. The courtyard aesthetic reminded Valencia of celebrations with her family in San Salvador.
“In my culture, we don’t fear death, and instead, we just look at it as a beautiful next step,” Valencia said. “And we hold the memory of those who have passed through their photos, through their food, through the talking of them, and we know that they’re with us.”
Brittni Jones, the manager at Burghers Brewing South Side location, said she loves that she has the ability to host events like Valencia’s.
“I feel that whenever Burghers works with nonprofits, it’s good to bring awareness to their causes,” Jones said, “as well as bring us business at the same time.”
Anastasia Busby is a photojournalist with PublicSource who can be reached at anastasia@publicsource.org and on Instagram @abuzzbee_photography.
