Día de Los Muertos is a Mexican holiday where people honor their loved ones who have passed away by making an ofrenda on a home alter to remember and celebrate their lives. This year I had the privilege of putting together an ofrenda to honor the lives of several Mexican entomologists. We themed our ofrenda with the monarch butterfly as many of the scientist specifically studied butterflies. I was able to participate in this event with other federal agencies and non-profits that have similar goals regarding conservation and preservation.

 Two of the Mexican men we honored were named Homero Gómez and Raúl Hernández, they were activist for the campaign of conservation for the monarch butterflies. They were unfortunately murdered which is believed to be as a result of their campaign against logging. These unfortunate deaths illustrate the danger that conservationists face in Mexico. Their dedication to their work holds significant value to not only the monarch butterfly but to humans as well. For that reason, we chose to honor them and tell their story. As many of you may know butterflies are pollinators, and we need them to pollinate many of the fruits and vegetables that we eat. I believe once people receive the context behind these scientist work and how it relates to their own personal lives, they may see the significance and relevance of their work and lives.

I felt privileged to be able to help host our ofrenda, as I find it very important to recognize the work and contributions of the Latino community in the scientific field. Collaboration between multiple agencies and organizations are a good indicator that U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is meeting its goal of working with others. I find that very important as this kind of work fosters and encourages inclusivity and diversity. Participating in these kind of cultural events helps reach out to audiences with less representation in public lands which happens to be one of my goals of my internship.