How can celebrating cultural traditions strengthen a community?

In this episode, host Aaron Masliansky is joined by Diana Gran — Founder of Diana Gran Portraits and Director of Día de los Muertos (DDM) Week in Highland Park — to explore how honoring heritage can create unity, healing, and connection across generations and cultures.

Diana shares her journey from Acapulco to Highland Park, how reclaiming her roots transformed her life and art, and why DDM Week has become a meaningful celebration for the North Shore community. We discuss the power of remembrance, the importance of cultural authenticity, and how local businesses, libraries, and community organizations have come together to support this growing annual tradition.

What Día de los Muertos truly represents

Diana’s journey of identity, immigration, and finding home

The origins and mission of DDM Week in Highland Park

The healing power of honoring ancestors and community storytelling

How local businesses and organizations are collaborating to keep culture alive

Why “done is better than perfect” can change your life and creativity

Website: https://dianagranportraits.com

DDM Week Instagram: @ddmweekhp

DDM Week Information & Events: https://hpculturalarts.org

Website: https://thechicagolandguide.com

Instagram: @thechicagolandguide

YouTube: @TheChicagolandGuide

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