Mercer Times

First Lady Tammy Murphy hosted a Día de Muertos commemoration at Drumthwacket, marking the first celebration of this holiday at the Governor's Mansion. The event included prominent leaders from New Jersey’s Mexican and Latino communities and was attended by Mariana Díaz Nagore, Head Consul of the Consulate of Mexico in New Brunswick.

“New Jersey is home to an incredibly strong and vibrant Mexican American community, which is why I wanted to open Drumthwacket – the People’s House – to both celebrate Día de Muertos and acknowledge the rich contributions of our state’s Mexican and Latino residents,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “Día de Muertos is a special time to come together with friends and family to reflect, connect with our ancestors, and remember loved ones who have passed. We were honored to mark this beautiful holiday and, when we looked at the altar, Phil and I truly felt the presence of our loved ones.”

Día de Muertos involves families welcoming back the souls of deceased relatives for a brief reunion that includes food, drink, and celebration. Living family members treat the deceased as honored guests by leaving their favorite foods and other offerings at gravesites or on altars.

At Drumthwacket, the Music Room was transformed into an altar honoring departed loved ones of the Governor and First Lady. The altar was decorated by Lilia Rios and Francisco Del Toro, Co-Founders of La Providencia. It featured photos, candles, marigolds called cempasuchil, and food for the deceased.

“The altar for the Dia de Muertos at Drumtwacket is a recognition of the Mexican community in New Jersey and a celebration of its rich culture and values. I am grateful to First Lady Tammy Murphy for opening the doors of Drumthwacket for the first time to Mexico’s Day of the Dead traditions,” said Mariana Díaz Nagore.

Lilia Rios expressed her gratitude: “For us at La Providencia, it has been a true honor...that the Governor and First Lady have chosen our company to carry out the first celebration of Día de Muertos in the history of the Governor's Mansion...We are immensely grateful for...this wonderful event.”