South Valley parade shrinks to 28 floats as organizers cite costs

The South Valley Dia de los Muertos Marigold Parade returned on Sunday after a multi-year hiatus, drawing community members to honor the deceased and remember Dolores Huerta. The New Mexico-born labor leader and civil rights icon died on Wednesday, adding weight to the Sunday gathering.

Organizers stated the event featured 28 floats this year, a reduction from the 98 floats in previous iterations. Xavier Avila, an organizer, attributed the decrease to financial constraints. He noted that art workshops and the celebration itself cost approximately $12,000. When factoring in the parade logistics, road closures, and sheriff services, total expenses reached $24,000.

Avila described the funding situation as serious. "We’re pretty transparent. So just the celebration and all of our art workshops cost about $12,000. But with the parade and the road closures and the sheriffs, it goes up to $24,000. So it’s a pretty serious funding situation," he said.

Attendees connected the event to Huerta’s legacy. Alicia Apodaca said, "And it is important because she is Hispanic and it’s important for me to keep that culture and teachings alive." Yvonne Loya added, "There’s no one that brings that kind of hope that she did. We truly stand on her shoulders."

Ava Loya viewed the day as a social gathering to celebrate culture and see neighbors dressed up together. Anne Gonzales used the occasion to remember her late brother and a close friend. Attendees also noted less favorable weather on Sunday, which contrasted with the vibrant displays of remembrance.

The parade served as a focal point for the community to maintain traditions. Participants balanced the recognition of Huerta with personal remembrances of their own family members. The event highlighted the intersection of local history and personal grief in a public setting.