Dia de los Muertos community altar in Eureka welcomes annual return of ancestors

EUREKA – Tuesday in Eureka, locals honored and remembered those who’ve passed away with a Dia de los Muertos community altar.
Centro del Pueblo organized the altar on the steps of the Humboldt County Courthouse.
It was filled with photos of friends and family members who’ve died. Community members left food and lit candles as a way to welcome ancestors back into their lives and maintain connections to lost loved ones.
Organizers say the altar was also meant to raise awareness of the hundreds of migrants who’ve died this year trying to enter the country and the need for a local sanctuary ordinance.
“We want to acknowledge that they’re not the only ones who have lived this,” said Fortuna resident Xochitl Cabrera. “I myself have family members that have lost their lives on the border and we want to acknowledge them and for the families who are seeing this, it’s something for them too.”