The Cultural Coalition, Inc., founded in 1996 as a grassroots organization, has evolved into a 501(c)3 non-profit entity with a mission rooted in connecting communities and generations to ancestral knowledge and practices. This connection is fostered through artistic cultural preservation and programs that celebrate Chicano, Latiné, and Indigenous heritages. The organization aims to address significant social issues while actively involving organizations, schools, and individuals in the creation of neighborhood arts programs.
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One notable initiative of the Cultural Coalition is the annual MIKIZTLI festival, now in its 12th year, dedicated to Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Dia de los Muertos is a deeply meaningful family holiday with roots dating back 3,000 years to the time of the Olmecs. It is celebrated throughout Mexico, Latin America, and the Southwest. The festival involves paying homage to ancestors through prayers, offerings of food, and the construction of altars dedicated to the departed.
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In Arizona, where the Cultural Coalition is based, Día de los Muertos is uniquely observed as a Celebration of Life. This distinction reflects the organization's commitment to preserving and celebrating cultural traditions while adapting them to the local context. The MIKIZTLI festival serves as a vibrant and significant platform for fostering a sense of community, honoring heritage, and promoting cultural understanding.
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Carmen and Zarco Guerrero, accomplished artists and longtime residents of the Valley, have dedicated themselves to promoting the authentic ancestral traditions of Día de los Muertos through their annual Mikiztli festival. Zarco, a skilled mask maker and sculptor, co-founded the festival alongside his wife, Carmen. 
 
Following the latest celebration, Renee Aguilar, Assistant Director at Cultural Coalition, reflected on the event, stating, "Our staff all agreed that it was another successful event."
 
Staff consensus labeled it a success, with an expanded footprint accommodating more artists and vendors. The addition of a picnic area for food vendors addressed previous issues with long food lines.
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According to Aguilar, "Our surveyed attendees stated they mostly enjoyed the performances and being able to bring their whole families to the celebration." Surveyed participants expressed satisfaction with the diverse performances and the inclusive family atmosphere.
 
A notable trend observed was the increased participation of attendees bringing photographs and offerings to contribute to the ofrenda, creating a poignant space for honoring loved ones.
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Aguilar provided estimates, suggesting an attendance between 7,000 to 8,000 people, slightly lower than the previous year. She cheerfully attributed the minor dip to the enthusiasm surrounding the Diamondbacks playing in the World Series that evening, showcasing the diverse interests of the community.
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Zarco Guerrero, founder of the festival, shared his favorite moments amid the celebration, emphasizing, "Watching the kids sing and dance... They want and need culture. They need identity." He viewed the festival as a vital platform for fostering cultural connection and identity, sentiments echoed by the diverse community celebrating Dia de los Muertos.
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