Las Aguilas de Oro at the head of the parade.

On the evening of October 27, 2021, Burbank Middle School welcomed its parents and community to its Fall Family Magnet Night. This event was made possible through the collaboration of Avenue CDC, members of our community such as Metro, Sam Houston Math, Science and Technology Center, and members of our students and staff, especially our Wraparound Specialist Ms. Xiomara Ardon. Our Magnet Coordinator, Ms. Amanda Vasquez, welcomed everyone to our campus and invited them to visit the many informative booths that had been set up.

Part of the activities planned for the afternoon included a Day of the Dead Parade ("Día de los Muertos"), created by our Las Aguilas de Oro Folkloric Dance Troupe under the direction of Dr. Mary Velasquez. The "Día de los Muertos" parade is a very typical and traditional activity meant to commemorate and honor the dead. This parade represents a blend of Mesoamerican ritual, traditional religion, and Spanish culture. Families welcome back their deceased relatives for a little while, remembering their lives with food and drink and a celebration. To that effect, they create an "altar" that is festive and full of food and mementos.

Our students pose in front of the 2021-2022 "Dia de los Muertos" altar.

The students participating in the parade were dressed in traditional clothes from many Mexican states. In addition, some were carrying "caravelitas" (small skulls) and some carried candles, all of which were adorned with colorful ribbons. They were also wearing white make-up and/or a white mask.

The parade began in front of the school, moving past the flag area and out to the sidewalk. They walked a loop in front of the school, finishing in the flag square. Once there, Las Aguilas de Oro performed "La Bruja".

Las Aguilas de Oro perform "La Bruja"

Enjoy the video of the event, courtesy of our Technology Teacher, Mr. Sergio Luviano.