Over the weekend, malls and tourist areas in Guayaquil were filled with costumed children and adults in anticipation of the popular Halloween celebration, which originated in the United States, where this year is expected to see record spending of $12.2 billion. As the National Retail Federation told the EFE agency, it estimates that 73% of the country’s citizens will participate in some activity related to this celebration.

Day of the Dead vs. Halloween: the differences and similarities between these two traditional celebrations

Why did the pumpkin become the most famous symbol of Halloween?

The date is used by the commercial sector to increase sales, and people who like these customs to have a little fun. It happens that October 31st is the National Shield Day in Ecuador, which unites the symbolic representation of the nation and deserves respect, importance and general attention.

Without questioning those who enjoy foreign celebrations, giving a break to the weak local economy, it is desirable to encourage greater enthusiasm for understanding the value of national symbols. Proudly saying that tomorrow is National Shield Day, realizing that every display of it contributes to true citizenship is a step. It starts at home and is strengthened in classrooms and institutions.

When is National Shield Day celebrated?

Just as in various social spaces, time is set aside for organizing costumes, it is worth analyzing with regard to the national symbol. We recognize entities that organize activities such as painting, public performances, poetry or trivia competitions and virtual competitions to be more in line with current events in the world.

Today we highlight two of the fifteen elements of our shield: the condor with spread wings in flight, which represents energy and effort, and the palm, which symbolizes the peace of the nation. Both are very present today when the authorities must redouble their efforts, with the unity of all, in order to overcome the conflicts that Ecuador faces and restore the peace that characterized the country until a few years ago. (OR)