The University of Westminster brought together students, colleagues and its diverse community to celebrate Día de los Muertos, the Mexican traditional Day of the Dead, on 28 October, marking the third year of the cultural celebration under the University’s programme for Inclusion, Belonging and Sustainable Development.
Originally introduced by International Student Champion and now Westminster graduate Melissa Ramos Peimbert, the celebration has become an annual opportunity for the Westminster community to experience Mexican traditions, honour loved ones and connect through shared cultural experiences.
This year's celebration was brought to life with the support of Mexican artists Michelle Amezcua and José Canseco from Itzatna Arts who helped create a welcoming and immersive cultural experience. Canseco shared insights into the history and significance of Día de los Muertos, helping participants understand the traditions behind the celebration and the importance of remembering loved ones with warmth, colour and joy. Students from the Latin American and Caribbean Studies Research Group, co-led by Dr Liz Harvey-Kattou, contributed informative posters about the celebration, including Spanish translations, offering further insights into its cultural significance and traditions.
At the heart of the event was a traditional ofrenda (altar), where attendees were invited to place photographs of their loved ones, honouring their memories and celebrating connections that remain beyond life. The altar provided a meaningful space for reflection, remembrance and sharing personal stories.
Attendees also took part in Branches and Blooms, a hands-on clay workshop inspired by the Mexican Árbol de la Vida (Tree of Life) tradition. Participants created their own small Tree of Life charms, exploring Mexican folk art and its symbolism through creativity and cultural exchange.
Beyond celebrating Mexican heritage, the event offered students from different cultural backgrounds an opportunity to discover and appreciate traditions they may not have encountered before.
The celebration forms part of the University's programme for Inclusion, Belonging and Sustainable Development, which creates opportunities for students and colleagues to connect through cultural exchange, shared experiences and meaningful dialogue.
Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Dibyesh Anand said: “Día de los Muertos reminds us that remembering those we have lost can be an act of love, colour and even joy. What moves me the most is how this celebration began at our institution with one International Student Champion wanting to bring a piece of home to Westminster. Three years on, it belongs to all of us. Belonging is not just about feeling at home in your own culture; it is about being curious enough to step into someone else’s. Many thanks to everyone involved in running our World in Westminster events! This is what a global university looks like at its best.”
José Canseco, artist at Itzatna Arts, added: “Day of the Dead is a beautiful celebration and a special occasion for us to remember our loved ones and our ancestors. It is important to know the story and its constant changes to understand where it stands today, its meanings and its symbols, but, on a personal note, to avoid it being simplified.”
This event and the University’s programme for Inclusion, Belonging and Sustainable Development directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3: Good Health and Wellbeing, 4: Quality Education and 10: Reduced Inequalities. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Discover more Equality, Diversity and Inclusion events at the University of Westminster.
Photo credits: Claudia Cantarini and Peggy Riga
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