DECATUR – In light of the “national climate surrounding immigration status and safety concerns,” organizers of the Día De Los Muertos Festival are canceling this year’s fourth annual celebration in downtown Decatur.
Organizers said today the difficult decision came after careful consideration and deliberation and their top priority remains the well-being of community, attendees, and friends.
“Our hearts are with everyone who looks forward to this beloved celebration,” said Jesse Gonzalez, committee chairman for Día De Los Muertos Decatur. “While this was not an easy choice, we believe it is the right one to ensure the safety and security of all participants.”
The committee said it will be focusing on establishing a 501(c)(3) nonprofit status which will be known under the name of Downtown Decatur’s Corazón y Cultura (Heart and Culture).
“This milestone will allow us to expand our mission of celebrating and sharing culture in ways that unite our community,” Gonzalez said. “Through vibrant downtown events, we aim to create inclusive spaces where people of all backgrounds can experience and learn about Latino culture while embracing the rich diversity of Decatur.”
In addition to cultural celebrations, Corazón y Cultura will invest in the future of the community by awarding scholarships to underserved, first-generation students pursuing higher education.
“Securing nonprofit status will enable us to grow our events to even greater heights and broaden our cultural programming,” he said.
To complement the Día De Los Muertos celebration, Gonzalez said the organization will also launch “a series of inclusive downtown events including Cinco de Mayo, Día del Grito, and Posada de Navidad — creating a year-round movement of culture, connection, and opportunity for all.”
“We are committed to making downtown Decatur a hub of culture and community,” said Emma Martin, communications director at Decatur Morgan County Tourism. “This pause will allow this committee to build an even stronger foundation so that our next celebration will be bigger, more inclusive, and more vibrant than ever.”
For questions, contact Gonzalez at [email protected].
