As part of West Ham United’s Día de los Muertos celebrations, Mexican star Edson Álvarez surprised students from the Club’s U10 Player Pathway programme as they decorated a number of ‘calaveras’, which are a Mexican symbol of the Day of the Dead.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a two-day celebration that is meant to reunite the living and the dead, and is often viewed as a celebration of life for loved ones who have passed away. Contrary to the mourning of most gatherings surrounding death, Día de los Muertos is viewed as a yearly occasion where the dead rejoin their families in celebration.
The Mexican midfielder sat down at London Stadium for a wide-ranging chat about the importance of Día de los Muertos to all-things football as he hoped to inspire the next generation and taught them about a very meaningful tradition from his country.
He spoke of how proud he is to share a piece of Mexican heritage with them, and says even though Día de los Muertos is a Mexican tradition, it’s something everyone can embrace. It’s about remembering those we love, no matter where we’re from.
Álvarez told whufc.com: “It was amazing to have this special connection with the students, and it felt very nice that they wanted to know more about my country, Mexico. I had a very good moment with them.
“It’s a very special day for all of us as Mexicans and is a day you remember people who have already passed away. We want to keep that person in our hearts, and this is a day to remember them. It’s one of the most important days in Mexico. It’s a very big day in our country and gives us a very good feeling.
“For us, it’s a happy day because you remember them with a big smile because the people who have passed away want you to be always happy. Some people will cry because they are remembering a special person, but on the other hand, they’re still present in your heart and mind. Every house in Mexico will celebrate
“It’s very important to have these events and moments because we have a very big culture in Mexico, and it makes me very proud to show where I come from. It’s something we celebrate as a country, and it's special that they took a strong interest in this.
“It’s amazing to represent your country, and it’s the biggest thing for you as a player. When you’re there, you’re very grateful and feel amazing. I want to put Mexico on top and see a lot of Mexican people here, which is special.
“They did amazing work designing the calaveras, and there were a lot of creative ideas. They put a lot of effort into it. These events can have a big impact on everyone, and people can learn about different countries and cultures.”
