Anatomy of the Emma Tenayuca Ofrenda
Where to Find It: The Great Hall through January 12, 2025
What is an ofrenda?
An ofrenda is an altar set up by family, friends, or community members to welcome the souls of the deceased to visit the living on Día de los Muertos. Traditionally, altars are set up using a mix of personal and traditional items like marigolds, candles, food, and photos.
Who was Emma Tenayuca?
Emma Tenayuca (December 21, 1916–July 23, 1999) was a prominent Mexican American labor organizer, civil rights activist, and educator. A San Antonio native, she has inspired generations with her courage and fearlessness which earned her the name "La Pasionaria de Texas.”
Who created this ofrenda?
The ofrenda was designed by Amalia Mesa-Bains, an influential artist and cultural critic known for pioneering the genre of altar-installation. SAMA’s current special exhibition, Amalia Mesa-Bains: Archaeology of Memory, is the first major retrospective of her work.
Why are there pecans on the ofrenda?
Tenayuca was twenty-one when she led the 1938 San Antonio Pecan Shellers Strike. She galvanized approximately 12,000 workers at over 130 plants to walk off the job in protest of a salary reduction of one cent per pound of shelled pecans and terrible working conditions.
Why are there leaves around the ofrenda?
The green paper leaves around the altar were cut to resemble pecan tree leaves. Visitors are encouraged to honor their departed loved ones by taking a leaf and writing down the name and field of labor of the departed.
