Aztec people called themselves Mexica. This is why the nation was named Mexico. Mexica are indigenous people, and they have their native language. They had splendid civilization and dominated large parts of Mesoamerica from the 14th to 16th centuries. As a worldwide art form—dance may show their history, life, religion and celebrations. Huitzilopotchli Aztec Dancers will perform the Aztec Dance on the north side of the Memorial Union on Oct. 17, from noon to 12:45 p.m. This event is sponsored by Washburn’s Multicultural Affairs and is free to the public.

They will be wearing their traditional dress and feathery headdress. They use a kind of seed-leggings to make noise when they dance. These dances are very expressive and focus on nature. Mexica dance is vivid and lively and reflects many aspects of Aztec life.

These Huitzilopochtli Aztec Dancers are members of Azteca Arts Colorado, a non-profit organization that has been running for over 15 years. Through the expression of dance, all the Huitzilopochtli Aztec Dances aim to protect their traditions and rituals of pre-Hispanic culture, especially Mexica culture.

According to Azteca Arts Colorado website, they said: “We promote their self-preservation of the culture through educational, economical, spiritual and nutritional growth utilizing the arts to achieve these goals.”

This activity is also part of celebration of Dia De Los Muertos. Dia de Los Muertos means Day of the Dead. It is an important holiday throughout Mexico and the southwest United States with much admiration and ceremony. Towards the beginning of November, people use sugar skulls, marigolds and favorite foods and beverages of the dead to create a private honoring.

“Celebration of Dia De Los Muertos is a way that prays for and remembers the friends, family members, owners and any passed on a person who you care about,” said Dona Walker, the director of Multicultural Affair. “ All we do to be just that we try to make Aztec life alive.”