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Celebrating Día de los Muertos with East High School: Uplifting Latino Youth

Hello, Midwest Mujeres!


In the spirit of Día de los Muertos, we’re excited to highlight an inspiring youth-led event organized by one of our very own, Silvia Gomez, a dedicated Midwest Mujeres member and passionate advocate for young Latinos. Silvia serves as an advisor for East High School’s La Raza United, a student-driven program that celebrates Latino culture, unity, and empowerment.


On November 2, 2024, La Raza United will host its annual Día de los Muertos Performance & Fundraiser at East High School, with two showtimes—1 PM and 5 PM. Sign up link!


Celebrating Día de los Muertos with East High School: Uplifting Latino Youth

This year, we will honor loved ones who have passed by displaying their photos in a special video montage, which will play over the stage during the performance. The celebration includes food and crafts prepared by East High School parents, face painting, a lively game of Lotería, and more! Attendees dressed as a Catrín or Catrina will receive extra food tickets. 


Tickets are available for $10 for adults, $7 for K-12 students, and free for children under 5. Scan the QR code in the flyer or pay cash at the door to participate in this cultural celebration.


La Raza United: A Student-Led Movement La Raza United was founded in 2015 by five visionary students looking for a space to connect and celebrate their heritage. Under Silvia’s mentorship, this program fosters a sense of belonging and cultural pride. The name


“Raza” signifies “the people,” representing everyone in the Latino community and beyond.

The group is open to all students, providing a space where they can feel confident in their identity and accepted for who they are. Students from grades 9 through 12 meet weekly to support each other, develop leadership skills, and build lasting friendships. Silvia shares that students often remark they would not have connected with each other without La Raza United.


The Power of Mentorship and Mental Health Support

Silvia’s journey with La Raza United reflects her commitment to mentorship and youth mental health.


Silvia Gomez recalls, “Growing up, we didn’t have mentors like this.” Mentorship is essential for young people, helping them build confidence, develop a positive self-identity, and navigate the challenges of balancing their cultural heritage with societal expectations.

Latino youth often experience distinct challenges, from adapting to U.S. culture and balancing dual cultural identities to managing differences in language and values between generations.


Additionally, factors like discrimination, bullying, financial hardship, and exposure to violence can contribute to mental health struggles, including symptoms of depression and anxiety (American Psychiatric Organization, 2019). Programs like La Raza United address these issues by providing safe spaces for expression, connection, and cultural pride. In Collaboration with the Xicano Institute for Education-- for which Silvia is a council member, la Raza United is provided with year-round workshops and resources that promote self-empowerment and cultural awareness.


With the support of partners like Leslie Peterson and UW Health, La Raza United connects students with Latino professionals and career development opportunities, inspiring them to set big goals and build practical life skills.


Supporting La Raza United 

Join East High School this November 2nd, Day of the Dead. Enjoy the show, food, games, and much more. It is an afternoon for the whole family.


Donations are greatly appreciated! Proceeds from this event will go toward new regalia, field trips, and leadership development for La Raza United, with funds shared with Ballet Folklórico de María Díaz.


Scholarships and volunteer opportunities are essential for sustaining and growing this work. Scholarships enable students to access educational resources and opportunities that shape their futures, while volunteer involvement provides valuable community connections and hands-on experiences, helping these young leaders develop skills and confidence.


Those interested in sponsoring, providing scholarships, or volunteering should contact Silvia Gomez.


Office Phone:  608-204-1624

Venmo: @Xicana0918

Cashapp: $Xicana0918



This Saturday, November 2nd, let us remember our passed loved ones and ancestors.

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