Our Mission
Catrinas Rising is about cultural identity, traditions, and community through the recreation of La Catrina, an iconic figure of Mexico, to celebrate our heritage.
Our Vision
We envision communities where we honor, protect, and uplift mexican heritage as a living, evolving tradition. We will forever cherish its stories and vibrant spirit by cultivating its practices, while nurturing its growth, so that it thrives and inspires generations to come.
Our Core Values
Intergenerational
conection
Bridging generations is at the heart of our work. We create spaces where elders, adults, and youth come together to share stories, traditions, creativity, and lived experiences.
Healing
Healing is one of the gifts of our mission, and when carried out with intention, it allows stories, creativity, and community to mend and flourish together. By honoring our histories and hold space for shared experiences, we nurture resilience, collective care, and pathways toward wholeness.
Belonging
Belonging is the foundation of our organization. We are committed to creating inclusive spaces where every person feels seen, valued, and connected. By honoring diverse identities, lived experiences, and cultural roots, we foster environments of trust, respect, and shared purpose—so all can show up fully and grow together.
Joy
Joy is a powerful act of resilience and connection within our community. We genuinely hold space to create, to connect, to laugh, and to celebrate our traditions. By uplifting each other's journey and sharing moments of happiness, we strengthen bonds, inspire hope, and affirm the richness of who we are—together.
Our Why
Born from the vibrant tradition of Día de los Muertos and the iconic Catrina,
our organization exists to celebrate and preserve our mexicanidad through our heritage, creativity and culture.
We started with a simple idea: to bring families, educators, artisans, and local businesses together to honor the artistry and cultural richness of Catrinas of flesh and bone. Over time, this vision has grown into a movement that weaves inspiration, art, and culture into the streets of Portland.
"Attending the "Catrina's en la Calle" procession was magical! My kids and I got to create our own colorful Catrinas, learn about Mexican traditions, and meet amazing people. We left feeling inspired, connected, and full of joy. Can’t wait for the next event!”
Luisa R., Contestants
Voices of the Catrinas and the Community
