Maimie

TERM 2 ~ Mexico

Cultural assimilation - personal project

Before coming to Mexico, I was curious about how media and global influence have shaped the celebration of Día de los Muertos. I had only seen the holiday portrayed in movies and online, so I wanted to understand how these representations compare to the perspectives of people within the Oaxacan community. To explore this, I interviewed three women—each from a different generation. The first was 19, the second 31, and the third 62. I asked them how they view and value the celebration, and how they feel external influences, such as the media, have affected it. After gathering their responses, I compiled my findings into a newspaper-style report that highlighted the similarities and differences across generations—and revealed how tradition, identity, and global attention all interact in today’s Oaxacan celebrations.

This newspaper report explored the contrast between traditional and less traditional ways of celebrating Día de los Muertos among the three women. Through their interviews, it became clear that each generation connects to the celebration in its own way. The younger woman described participating in the holiday with a lighter, more casual attitude, influenced partly by modern media and the way the celebration is presented online and in movies.

The woman in her thirties shared a more balanced perspective—she still values the traditions she grew up with but also enjoys some of the newer, more social aspects of the holiday that have become popular in recent years.

In contrast, the oldest woman approached Día de los Muertos with deep seriousness and respect. She emphasized the spiritual meaning and the historical importance of honoring loved ones who have passed. Her description reflected a strong connection to the roots of the celebration, showing how tradition can remain powerful even as outside influences grow. Together, their stories offered a layered understanding of how different generations celebrate, value, and adapt Día de los Muertos in a changing world.

Page updated

Report abuse