Learning the Meaning Behind Dia de los Muertos

From English Teacher Nik Bergill:

Gould takes Halloween seriously, and our community received an extra treat this year when we gathered for our morning Halloween assembly! Before Dr. Clarke and the weekend team announced campus Trick-or-Treat plans, the Saturday night masquerade dance, and which horror movie would be shown at the yurt, Fernando ’26 and Mau ’27 offered a presentation on the history and significance of Dia de los Muertos.

Dressed in costumes themselves, Mau and Fernando explained that modern celebrations of Dia de los Muertos emerged from a blending of Aztec traditions and Catholic practices introduced to Mexico during the Spanish conquest. At home in Mexico, this time of year is seen as a moment wherein the barrier between the living and the dead “becomes thinner,” and Fernando and Mau encouraged the community to think of their own lost ones fondly in addition to celebrating Halloween itself.

Thanks to Mau and Fernando for helping our community understand the meaning and beauty behind this vibrant tradition.

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This past week, I had the opportunity to share not only what I stand for, but also how I was raised. It was heartwarming to see my classmates interested in a tradition like Día De Muertos. It is important to acknowledge every culture in the student body and I can’t wait to share a little more of my world! – Mau ’27

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