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In Chicago’s vibrant neighborhood of Pilsen, one resident has transformed her home into a heartfelt tribute for Dia de los Muertos for the past five years.
Over the past week and a half, visitors have flocked to Isabel’s residence on 19th Street. They come to admire the collection of photos and to remember their departed loved ones, uniting in a celebration deeply significant to the community.
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Isabel’s motivation was to create a communal space for honoring those who have passed. She compiled photographs from both social media and local neighbors, crafting a display where people can come together in remembrance.
“It’s truly beautiful; a meaningful way to pay tribute to those we’ve lost. Having lost family members in recent years, it’s comforting to pause and honor their memory,” shared Maria Rosales.
Visitors have journeyed from all corners of the Chicagoland area to witness this moving homage. Among them, a mother and her son from Auburn Gresham visited on Sunday evening, expressing that this powerful display of faith unites people throughout Chicago.
“We lost, I think, in total, about four loved ones in this year. So, it’s been an incredible year of loss, but I’m glad we have these beautiful treasures inside to keep those memories of those who have gone before us and continue to celebrate life,” that mother said.
This display also hits close to home for one man who actually lived in this same building 25 years ago.
Ponch and Isabel were neighbors before, and on Sunday, they reunited. It was a moment that meant even more to him as the photo of his mother sat on the display.
“I look at my parents’ house, and that brings tears, because both of my parents just passed recently, and they have a picture of my mom up there,” Ponch said.
Sunday marks end of the display. Remarkably, Isabel says she does this all on her own without any help. So, if you live near Pilsen, come on by and help her take down these decorations. She says she is now going to get ready for Christmas as soon as possible.