Beta Xi Chapter of Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha (SIA) hosted “Alebrijes with the SIA’s” to educate students about Mexican culture.

The presentation emphasized the legacy of Pedro Linares and the symbolism of alebrijes, fantastical and colorful handcrafted creatures that are most seen during the Day of the Dead.

The Day of the Dead is known globally as one of the oldest and most vibrant cultural expressions among indigenous groups in Mexico. It is celebrated annually on November 1 and 2. 

A tradition of Day of the Dead is filling the streets with vivid displays that honor deceased loved ones. November 1 is dedicated to children as All Saints’ Day, while November 2 is reserved for adults on the Day of the Faithful Departed. 

The event organizer Kathy Ochoa, senior health studies major from Little Rock, organized this event. She said her goal was to educate students about this rich cultural history of the alebrijes. 

 Ochoa said alebrije’s are Mexican folk art sculptures, traditionally crafted from paper-mâché or wood, representing imaginative and intricate creatures combining features of real and mythical animals. 

Their origin traces back to Pedro Linares, an artisan who in the 1930s had a dream filled with these vibrant creatures, which he later recreated using papier-mâché. 

Over time, this tradition spread to Oaxaca, known for its vibrant colors and detailed designs, cementing alebrijes as a symbol of Mexican folk art.

The event featured an interactive activity where students created their own alebrijes using clay while engaging in conversations and watching the animated film “Coco.”

 Ochoa said these cultural exchanges are important to promote cultural awareness of other countries represented by populations of Mexicans, Cubans, Hispanics and Latinos on campus to ensure they all feel seen. 

Ashley Ponce, a first-year biology student from North Little Rock, said she showed her Mexican spirit by making a rabbit with a variety of colors. 

“The most significant moment about this event was creating colorful creatures with friends and letting everyone know that these creatures aren’t just any animals but a sign of guidance as stated in the tradition,” Ponce said. “It is very important because although we are all the same, we have our differences in culture and traditions which contain so much beauty and liveliness.”

Garret Pritt, a junior biology major from Benton, Arkansas, said learning Mexican traditions is important.

“Everyone comes from a different place and when we learn more about different cultures, we MAMare able to understand and connect with each other better,” Pritt said.

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