History Happy Hour: Honoring Día de los Muertos Traditions

There are many traditional celebrations for Día de los Muertos; one of the most recognizable is creating an altar for a deceased loved one. This tradition is rooted in a rich history full of symbolism that spans generations of celebrating this cultural holiday. Learn from panelists Fonda Portales, Art Historian and University Art Curator and Collections Manager at Boise State University, and Ana Maria Schachtell, Educator and Cultural Activist, as they share more about the history and importance of constructing altars.

Fonda Portales taught Art History at Boise State University for eight years before accepting her current role as University Art Curator and Collections Manager. She has a master’s degree in Art History from California State University, Los Angeles. Her academic focus is on transcultural iconography of Mesoamerican and Spanish influence.

Ana Maria Schachtell came to Idaho in 1974 from Mexico via California. She spearheaded the creation of the Hispanic Cultural Center of Idaho and created educational programs including the Stay in School Quincinera Program. In addition, she has been the project director for two historical books, “Jesus Urquides: Idaho’s Premier Muleteer” and “Nuestros Corridos: Latinos in Idaho – Idaho Latino History Through Song & Word.”

You can participate in the conversation through the audience Q&A by emailing questions to events@ishs.idaho.gov or submitting them live during the event in the chat bar.

Register early for this free virtual event; space is limited to the first 100 registrants.

Thank you to our Día de los Muertos program sponsor, Mofi!