The annual commemoration in Redwood City is a vibrant cultural event that honors deceased loved ones. It features traditional elements such as altars (ofrendas), music, dance, and artistic displays. The community gathering serves as a place for remembrance and celebration of life, deeply rooted in Mexican and Latin American traditions.
This event fosters community cohesion by providing a space for shared cultural expression and remembrance. It promotes intercultural understanding and appreciation within Redwood City. The celebration offers educational opportunities about the traditions and significance of Da de los Muertos, enriching the cultural landscape of the city.
The subsequent sections of this document will provide detailed information regarding specific aspects of the Redwood City commemoration, including its history, key activities, artistic components, and community impact. These details will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of this important local event.
1. Tradition
Tradition serves as the bedrock upon which the Redwood City observance of Da de los Muertos is built. It’s not merely a performance of rituals, but a deeply felt connection to ancestral practices, beliefs, and values that have been passed down through generations. These traditions, though rooted in the past, are living, breathing entities that inform and enrich the present.
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Altar Construction (Ofrendas)
The creation of altars is perhaps the most visible and poignant tradition. Families meticulously construct these ofrendas, laden with offerings of food, drinks, photographs, and cherished objects of the deceased. Each item holds symbolic weight, representing the deceased’s favorite things in life. The construction process is a communal effort, often involving multiple generations working together, sharing stories and memories of those who have passed. This practice ensures the continued remembrance and honoring of their ancestors. The arrangement of items on the altar, the specific flowers used (marigolds being prominent), and the overall design, all carry specific meanings rooted in tradition.
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Candles and Incense
The lighting of candles and burning of incense are essential components of the traditional observance. Candles symbolize the light that guides the spirits back to the world of the living, while incense is believed to purify the space and create a welcoming atmosphere for the returning souls. The specific type of incense used may vary depending on regional traditions and personal preferences, but the underlying purpose remains the same: to honor and welcome the deceased. The flickering candlelight creates an atmosphere of reverence and reflection, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of the commemoration.
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Music and Dance
Music and dance are integral to the celebration. Traditional folk songs and dances are performed, offering a joyful expression of remembrance. These performances are not somber displays of mourning, but rather a celebration of life and a reaffirmation of the connection between the living and the dead. The music often tells stories of the past, honoring the legacy of ancestors and reinforcing cultural identity. Dancing, in particular, can be a way to embody the spirit of the deceased, allowing for a temporary merging of the worlds.
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Pan de Muerto
The baking and sharing of Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead) is a culinary tradition deeply intertwined with the event. This sweet bread, often adorned with bone-shaped decorations, is offered to the deceased on the altar and shared among family and friends. The act of baking and consuming this bread is a communal experience, further solidifying the bonds between family members and reinforcing cultural heritage. Each family might have its own unique recipe, passed down through generations, adding a personal touch to this traditional offering.
These traditional elements, carefully preserved and enacted in Redwood City, transform the event from a mere display into a profound cultural experience. They create a space where memory is honored, community is strengthened, and the enduring connection between life and death is celebrated. Without these traditions, the Redwood City observance would lose its soul, its purpose, and its power to connect people to their heritage.
2. Community
Within Redwood City, the observance of Da de los Muertos is not a solitary act of remembrance, but a collective embrace of shared heritage. The community forms the very heart of the celebration, transforming individual grief into a powerful expression of cultural solidarity.
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Shared Altar Building
The act of constructing ofrendas transcends individual household activities. Often, families collaborate on larger, community altars displayed in public spaces. This cooperative effort fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose. Elders guide younger generations in proper altar construction, transmitting cultural knowledge and ensuring the continuation of tradition. The shared creation reinforces community bonds, turning a personal act of mourning into a collective expression of love and remembrance.
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Volunteerism and Organization
The annual celebration depends heavily on the dedicated efforts of volunteers. Residents dedicate their time and skills to organizing events, creating decorations, and managing logistical aspects of the observance. Local organizations and businesses often sponsor events and provide resources, demonstrating a collective commitment to preserving cultural heritage. This widespread volunteerism highlights the communitys investment in maintaining the traditions and creating a welcoming environment for all participants.
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Intergenerational Engagement
Da de los Muertos in Redwood City fosters strong intergenerational connections. Grandparents share stories of deceased relatives with grandchildren, teaching them about their family history and the significance of the celebration. Children participate in art workshops, creating decorations and learning about traditional symbolism. This intergenerational engagement ensures that cultural knowledge is passed down to future generations, strengthening family ties and preserving the community’s collective memory.
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Promoting Cultural Understanding
The public nature of the commemoration offers an opportunity for residents from diverse backgrounds to learn about Mexican and Latin American traditions. The vibrant displays of art, music, and dance attract individuals who may not be familiar with Da de los Muertos, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. The event becomes a bridge, connecting different communities within Redwood City and promoting inclusivity and respect for diverse cultural expressions.
The intertwined facets of shared altar building, volunteerism, intergenerational engagement, and promotion of cultural understanding converge to create a vibrant community spirit. The Redwood City Da de los Muertos is not simply an event, but a testament to the power of community in preserving cultural heritage, fostering connections, and transforming individual remembrance into a collective celebration of life and legacy.
3. Remembrance
The Redwood City observance of Da de los Muertos is, at its core, an act of remembrance. It transcends a simple memorial; it’s a conscious effort to keep alive the stories, legacies, and spirits of those who have passed. It is within this act of remembrance that the essence of the celebration resides, shaping the traditions, fostering the community, and imbuing the event with profound meaning.
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The Altar as a Narrative
Each ofrenda is more than a collection of objects; it’s a carefully curated narrative of a life. Photographs serve as visual anchors, recalling faces and moments frozen in time. Favorite foods and drinks are offered, tangible representations of the deceased’s tastes and preferences. Personal belongingsa worn hat, a beloved book, a handcrafted itemspeak volumes about their passions and identity. The altar, in its entirety, becomes a vibrant tapestry of memories, allowing the living to reconnect with the departed on a deeply personal level. It is a testament to the enduring power of memory.
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Stories Woven Through Generations
The building of the altar is a family endeavor, a time for sharing stories and anecdotes about the deceased. Grandparents recount tales to grandchildren, ensuring that the legacy of their ancestors remains alive in the hearts and minds of future generations. These stories, passed down through oral tradition, paint a vivid picture of the deceased’s personality, values, and contributions to the family. The sharing of these narratives fosters a sense of continuity and connection, bridging the gap between the living and the dead. The whispered stories become as integral to the remembrance as the objects placed upon the altar.
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Music as a Conduit of Memory
Music plays a pivotal role in evoking memories and emotions associated with the deceased. Traditional songs and melodies, often those that were enjoyed by the departed, fill the air, creating an atmosphere of reverence and celebration. These musical selections act as a conduit, transporting listeners back to specific moments in time, rekindling feelings of joy, love, and even sorrow. The music, whether performed live or played from a recording, serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring connection between the living and the dead. A single note can unlock a flood of memories, bringing the past vividly into the present.
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Rituals of Remembrance
Beyond the altar and the stories, specific rituals serve as acts of remembrance. Visiting the gravesite, tending to the resting place, and offering prayers are all ways to honor the deceased and maintain a connection to their physical presence. These rituals provide a sense of closure and comfort, allowing mourners to express their grief and reaffirm their love for those who have passed. The act of tending to the gravesite, of cleaning and decorating it, becomes a tangible expression of remembrance, a way of saying, “You are not forgotten.”
In Redwood City, Da de los Muertos is not just a cultural event; it is a community’s collective pledge to remember. Through the altars, the stories, the music, and the rituals, the city transforms into a living memorial, ensuring that the spirits of the departed continue to reside in the hearts and minds of the living. The Redwood City observance showcases how remembrance, when embraced by a community, can transform grief into a powerful and enduring legacy.
4. Celebration
The vibrant tapestry of Da de los Muertos within Redwood City is not woven solely from threads of remembrance; strands of celebration shimmer throughout, adding hues of joy and life to the commemoration. These celebratory elements, while seemingly paradoxical in the face of death, are intrinsically linked to the deeper meaning of the holiday, transforming grief into a vibrant reaffirmation of life and connection.
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The Feast of Remembrance
The offerings placed upon the altars are not mere decorations; they are the foundation of a symbolic feast shared between the living and the dead. The aroma of Pan de Muerto, the sweetness of candied fruits, and the familiar scents of favorite dishes fill the air, inviting the spirits of the departed to partake in the celebration. Families gather together to prepare and share these foods, reliving memories and telling stories of the deceased over a shared meal. This act of feasting transforms mourning into a joyful communion, celebrating the lives of those who have passed and reaffirming the bonds that unite the living and the dead.
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The Rhythm of Life in Music and Dance
Music and dance infuse the Redwood City celebration with a vibrant energy, echoing the rhythm of life itself. Traditional folk songs and dances, often those enjoyed by the deceased, fill the streets, inviting onlookers to join in the revelry. The performances are not somber dirges, but lively expressions of joy and remembrance, celebrating the lives of those who have passed and reaffirming the continuity of life. The dancers, adorned in colorful costumes and intricate makeup, embody the spirit of the celebration, transforming grief into a celebration of life and legacy.
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Art as a Vibrant Expression
The artistic displays that adorn Redwood City during Da de los Muertos are a testament to the power of creativity in celebrating life and confronting death. Colorful sugar skulls, intricate paper cuttings (papel picado), and vibrant murals transform the city into a living art gallery, expressing the joy, sorrow, and hope that are inherent in the human experience. The artists, both professional and amateur, use their talents to honor the deceased, express their cultural identity, and create a space for community reflection and celebration. The art becomes a visual representation of the complex emotions that surround death, transforming grief into a beautiful and powerful expression of life.
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Community as a Source of Strength
The act of celebrating Da de los Muertos together as a community is itself a source of strength and comfort. Sharing stories, building altars, and participating in the festivities allows individuals to connect with others who are experiencing similar emotions, creating a sense of solidarity and belonging. The community becomes a support network, offering solace and understanding during a time of grief. The celebration transcends individual mourning, transforming it into a collective expression of love, remembrance, and hope. It’s a recognition that even in the face of loss, life continues, and the bonds of community endure.
Within the Redwood City observance, celebration and remembrance are not opposing forces, but rather complementary aspects of a holistic approach to death and mourning. The celebratory elements serve not to diminish the sadness of loss, but to transform it into a vibrant affirmation of life, community, and enduring connection. It is in this delicate balance between joy and sorrow that the true spirit of Da de los Muertos in Redwood City resides, offering a powerful and meaningful experience for all who participate.
5. Ofrendas
Within the Redwood City Day of the Dead celebrations, the ofrenda emerges not merely as a decorative element, but as the heart of the commemoration. These meticulously crafted altars serve as tangible expressions of remembrance, transforming personal loss into a shared communal experience. They are a bridge, connecting the living with the spirits of those who have passed, woven with threads of memory, love, and tradition.
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The Altar as a Family Portrait
Each ofrenda in Redwood City tells a story. Photographs of the departed are carefully arranged, capturing moments of joy, laughter, and love. These are not just images; they are portals, inviting memories to flood back, evoking the presence of the deceased. Personal belongings a cherished guitar, a worn book, a hand-knitted scarf find their place on the altar, each object whispering tales of the individual’s passions and personality. The selection of items is a deliberate act, creating a unique portrait of the departed, a testament to their life and legacy within the Redwood City community.
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Culinary Offerings: A Symbolic Feast
The scent of Pan de Muerto, a sweet bread adorned with bone-shaped decorations, permeates the air during the Day of the Dead in Redwood City. This, along with other traditional dishes and favorite foods of the deceased, are placed upon the ofrendas. These are not mere decorations; they are symbolic offerings, a feast prepared for the returning spirits. The act of preparing and sharing these foods becomes a communal activity, uniting families in remembrance. Recipes passed down through generations are revisited, preserving culinary traditions and strengthening familial bonds within the Redwood City context.
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Marigolds: Guiding Lights of Remembrance
Fields of vibrant marigolds, known as cempaschil, blanket the ofrendas of Redwood City, their bright orange hues serving as guiding lights for the returning spirits. These flowers are more than just decoration; they are believed to possess the power to attract the souls of the deceased, their scent leading them back to the world of the living. Families carefully arrange the marigolds, creating pathways and patterns that honor their ancestors. The presence of these flowers transforms the Redwood City commemoration into a visually stunning tribute to the power of memory and the enduring connection between life and death.
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Candles: Illuminating the Path
The soft glow of candlelight flickers across the ofrendas in Redwood City, illuminating the faces of the departed and creating an atmosphere of reverence and remembrance. Each candle represents a life, its flame symbolizing the enduring spirit of the deceased. The placement of the candles is deliberate, often forming crosses or other symbolic shapes, guiding the spirits and providing warmth and comfort. The candlelight transforms the Redwood City event into a sanctuary of remembrance, where the living and the dead can connect in a shared space of love and respect.
The ofrendas of Redwood City are more than just altars; they are living memorials, carefully constructed narratives of lives lived and loved. They are a testament to the power of remembrance, a communal expression of grief and joy, and a vibrant celebration of the enduring connection between the living and the dead. They are at the very heart of the Redwood City Day of the Dead, transforming the city into a sanctuary of remembrance and a vibrant testament to the enduring power of community.
6. Art
Within Redwood City’s Da de los Muertos, art transcends mere decoration; it becomes a powerful language, speaking volumes about remembrance, cultural identity, and the enduring connection between the living and the departed. It is a visual narrative, woven with vibrant colors, intricate symbolism, and heartfelt expression, transforming the city into a living gallery of cultural significance.
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Sugar Skulls: Sweetening the Memory
The iconic sugar skulls, or calaveras, are perhaps the most recognizable artistic element of the Redwood City commemoration. These vibrant, often whimsical, creations are not macabre symbols of death, but rather sweet reminders of the departed, personalized with names and decorative details. Skilled artisans craft these skulls, imbuing them with intricate designs and vibrant colors. The act of creating and gifting sugar skulls becomes a way to honor the deceased and celebrate their lives with sweetness and joy. They stand as a testament to the transformation of grief into a joyful remembrance.
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Papel Picado: Fragile Beauty of Remembrance
Delicate paper cuttings, known as papel picado, flutter in the breeze throughout Redwood City during the celebration. These intricate designs, often depicting skeletons, flowers, and other symbolic motifs, represent the fragility of life and the beauty of remembrance. The creation of papel picado requires skill and patience, each cut carefully executed to create a stunning visual effect. Hung across streets and adorning altars, they transform the city into a vibrant tapestry of color and symbolism, reminding all who see them of the delicate nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
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Altar Construction: A Canvas of Memories
The construction of ofrendas themselves is a form of art, a collaborative creation that transforms personal memories into public displays of remembrance. Families meticulously arrange photographs, flowers, food, and other meaningful objects on the altars, creating a visual narrative of the deceased’s life. The altars become canvases of memories, each item carefully chosen to represent the individual’s passions, personality, and place within the community. The Redwood City observance is filled with these artistic testaments, showcasing diverse personal stories.
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Face Painting: Embracing the Spirit
Face painting, particularly the iconic “Catrina” or skeleton face, is a prominent artistic tradition. Participants transform themselves into living representations of the holiday, embracing the spirit of remembrance and celebration. Skilled artists create intricate designs, using vibrant colors and symbolic motifs to transform ordinary faces into works of art. The act of adorning oneself in this way becomes a powerful statement of cultural identity and a joyful expression of connection to the traditions of Da de los Muertos within Redwood City.
These artistic expressions, from the delicate papel picado to the vibrant sugar skulls and the carefully constructed ofrendas, work together to create a unique and powerful experience in Redwood City. Art transforms a somber occasion into a vibrant celebration of life and remembrance. These visual elements serve as a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and offering a space for all to connect with the enduring power of memory.
7. Culture
The annual Redwood City Da de los Muertos celebration serves as a vibrant embodiment of cultural continuity. The event is not merely a performance of tradition but a reaffirmation of identity, a public display of deeply held beliefs and values passed down through generations. The cultural significance resonates throughout the city, touching the lives of participants and observers alike.
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Preservation of Indigenous Traditions
The roots of Da de los Muertos trace back to pre-Columbian Mesoamerican civilizations. The celebration, as practiced in Redwood City, incorporates elements of these indigenous traditions, such as the veneration of ancestors, the belief in the cyclical nature of life and death, and the use of specific symbols like marigolds and skull imagery. Families create altars adorned with traditional foods and offerings, echoing ancient rituals meant to honor and appease the spirits of the departed. This practice serves as a tangible link to a rich cultural heritage, ensuring that these ancient customs continue to thrive in a modern urban setting.
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Interweaving of Indigenous and Catholic Beliefs
Following the Spanish colonization of Mexico, indigenous traditions merged with Catholic beliefs, resulting in the syncretic celebration of Da de los Muertos as it is known today. The inclusion of Christian symbols like crosses and the celebration’s proximity to All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day demonstrate this blending of cultures. The Redwood City observance reflects this fusion, showcasing the complex interplay between indigenous spirituality and Catholic faith. The commemoration embraces this interwoven history, creating a space where both traditions are honored and celebrated.
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Community Identity and Solidarity
The Redwood City Da de los Muertos celebration fosters a strong sense of community identity and solidarity, particularly within the city’s Latinx population. The event provides a platform for cultural expression, allowing individuals to connect with their heritage and share their traditions with others. The creation of community altars, the performance of traditional music and dance, and the sharing of stories all contribute to a sense of collective identity. The observance becomes a space for celebrating cultural pride, strengthening community bonds, and fostering intercultural understanding within Redwood City.
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Cultural Exchange and Education
Beyond its significance for the Latinx community, the Redwood City Da de los Muertos provides an opportunity for cultural exchange and education for residents of all backgrounds. The event attracts visitors from diverse communities, offering them a glimpse into the rich traditions and beliefs associated with Da de los Muertos. Through art displays, educational exhibits, and community events, the celebration promotes cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. The Redwood City observance thus serves as a bridge, connecting different communities and fostering a greater understanding of cultural diversity.
In conclusion, the Redwood City Da de los Muertos functions as a crucial cultural touchstone, preserving ancestral traditions, fostering community bonds, and promoting intercultural understanding. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of culture to shape identity, connect generations, and enrich the social fabric of a community.
Frequently Asked Questions
As the echoes of drums and whispers of remembrance fade from Courthouse Square, lingering questions about the Day of the Dead celebration in Redwood City often surface. Understanding the traditions, the community involvement, and the deeper meaning behind this event is crucial for all who experience it. The following questions address common curiosities and misconceptions surrounding the Redwood City commemoration.
Question 1: Is the Day of the Dead in Redwood City a somber event, or is it a celebration?
The Redwood City observance balances solemn remembrance with joyful celebration. While honoring deceased loved ones is central, the event embraces the cyclical nature of life and death. Families create vibrant altars adorned with flowers, food, and cherished objects, inviting the spirits of the departed to return and share in the festivities. The celebration acknowledges the pain of loss while reaffirming the enduring bonds between the living and the dead, a concept some find difficult to grasp at first.
Question 2: What is the significance of the altars (ofrendas) seen in Redwood City during the Day of the Dead?
The altars are more than mere displays; they are carefully constructed narratives of lives lived. Each element holds symbolic meaning, from the photographs and personal belongings to the traditional foods and drinks. The ofrendas serve as a bridge, connecting the living with the spirits of the departed, allowing families to express their love, remember shared moments, and offer sustenance to the returning souls. These altars represent the dedication and thoughtfulness behind Redwood City’s cultural expression.
Question 3: Are the sugar skulls and skeletons meant to be frightening or disrespectful?
Quite the opposite. Sugar skulls, or calaveras, are not meant to evoke fear, but rather to celebrate life and poke fun at death. The skeletons, often depicted in whimsical attire and engaging in everyday activities, represent the belief that death is a natural part of life’s journey. These artistic expressions serve as a reminder to embrace life to the fullest and to find joy even in the face of mortality. The intent is to honor and remember, never to disrespect.
Question 4: How can someone who is not of Mexican or Latin American heritage respectfully participate in the Redwood City Day of the Dead celebration?
Respectful participation involves approaching the event with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a genuine appreciation for the cultural traditions. Observing the customs, admiring the artistry, and engaging in conversations with community members can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the significance of the celebration. Avoiding cultural appropriation and actively listening to the stories and perspectives of those who celebrate Day of the Dead are essential for respectful engagement.
Question 5: What is the role of music and dance in the Redwood City Day of the Dead commemoration?
Music and dance are integral to the celebration, providing a vibrant and joyful expression of remembrance. Traditional folk songs and dances, often those enjoyed by the deceased, fill the air, inviting onlookers to join in the revelry. These performances are not somber dirges but lively celebrations of life, honoring the legacy of the departed and reaffirming the continuity of life. The music and dance are the heartbeat of Redwood City’s celebration.
Question 6: Is the Day of the Dead a religious holiday?
While the celebration has roots in both indigenous and Catholic traditions, the Day of the Dead is primarily a cultural holiday. It is a time for families to honor their ancestors and celebrate the lives of those who have passed, regardless of their religious beliefs. The focus is on remembrance, family, and community, rather than on adherence to specific religious doctrines. This inclusivity contributes to the Redwood City event’s broad appeal.
Ultimately, the Day of the Dead in Redwood City is a powerful reminder of the importance of remembrance, community, and cultural heritage. It is a time to honor the lives of those who have passed and to celebrate the enduring bonds that connect us all.
The next section will delve into the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote this cultural tradition in Redwood City, ensuring its continuation for generations to come.
Navigating Remembrance
The annual Redwood City observance of Da de los Muertos unfolds as a vibrant tapestry of tradition, remembrance, and community. For those seeking to fully immerse themselves in its spirit, understanding the nuances can enrich the experience, transforming a simple observation into a deeply meaningful connection.
Tip 1: Embrace the Silence Within the Celebration.
While music and vibrant colors define much of the event, seek moments of quiet reflection near the altars. Observe the faces in the photographs, the details in the offerings. Respect the unspoken stories they represent. Consider it a moment of shared silence, a universal acknowledgement of loss and remembrance.
Tip 2: Engage with Respect, Not Appropriation.
Admire the artistry, the dedication in the crafted ofrendas, the intricate face paintings. But avoid imitation or mockery. Ask questions, listen to explanations, and learn the significance behind the symbols. Genuine curiosity fosters understanding; superficial mimicry diminishes cultural richness.
Tip 3: Contribute, If Invited, with Humility.
If a family offers a piece of Pan de Muerto or invites participation in an altar creation, accept with gratitude and respect. Understand that such invitations are gestures of inclusion, a sharing of deeply personal traditions. Reciprocate with genuine appreciation and a willingness to learn.
Tip 4: Understand the Layers of Symbolism.
The marigolds, the sugar skulls, the candles each carry a specific meaning rooted in centuries of tradition. Research these symbols beforehand or seek explanations from those familiar with their significance. This deeper understanding transforms observation into informed appreciation.
Tip 5: Remember the Children.
The Redwood City event is often attended by children, who are learning to navigate the complexities of death and remembrance through their cultural heritage. Be mindful of their presence, respecting their engagement and offering them space to participate without interruption or condescension.
Tip 6: Respect the Sacred Space.
The area within and immediately surrounding the altars is considered sacred. Avoid touching the offerings or interfering with the displays. Maintain a respectful distance and allow families the space they need for their personal remembrance.
Tip 7: Acknowledge the Community Effort.
The Day of the Dead in Redwood City is a product of countless hours of volunteer work, community collaboration, and artistic dedication. Acknowledge this effort through your respectful participation and by expressing gratitude to those who have made the event possible.
By embracing these guidelines, visitors can move beyond mere observation and become active participants in a meaningful cultural experience. It transforms a viewing into a profound connection.
The Redwood City Da de los Muertos offers a unique opportunity for cultural immersion and personal reflection. Approach it with respect, humility, and a genuine desire to understand, and the rewards will be immeasurable.
The Enduring Legacy
The narrative of Day of the Dead in Redwood City unfolds each year, a testament to the enduring power of memory and community. From the vibrant altars to the rhythmic pulse of music, this event serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the enduring bonds that connect generations. The careful balance of solemn remembrance and joyful celebration reflects a deep understanding of human experience, transforming grief into a collective expression of love and cultural pride.
As the sugar skulls are packed away and the marigolds fade, the essence of the celebration lingers. May it serve as a call to honor the past, embrace the present, and foster a future where cultural heritage continues to thrive. May it inspire continued engagement with traditions. May the stories shared in Redwood City echo long after the last candle flickers, reminding all of the enduring power of remembrance and the strength found in community.
