Missoula's annual Day of the Dead Festival began on Saturday.
According to Megan Fiore, senior operations manager for the Headwaters Foundation, the idea for the festival originated from the foundation's previous CEO and CFO, who have Latin roots and are from Guatemala.
Our previous CEO and CFO were originally from Guatemala, they have Latin roots and they realized that there needs to be a traditional Latin celebration of the Day of the Dead here.
The Headwaters Foundation hosts the event annually, prioritizing the preservation of the Day of the Dead's cultural integrity.
Making sure that Latin people are in charge, we make sure they have everything they need.
Nelly, a woman involved in the festival, ensures the authenticity of the altar and artwork.
Author's summary: Missoula celebrates Day of the Dead with cultural integrity.