Ms. Murchie, Gateway’s art teacher and equity liaison, took the initiative to decorate around the school to spread awareness about Hispanic culture for Hispanic Heritage Month, which was celebrated from Sept. 15-Oct. 15.
Festive pictures, banners, artifacts, and information about important Hispanic people decorated the hallways and display case.
Attention to Hispanic Heritage was displayed by Ms. Murchie as she dedicates her individual time exploring other cultures and she finds Hispanic heritage “beautiful and interesting.” Also, roughly 11% of our school’s population is Hispanic, so it is important that the feel like they are in an inclusive environment.
The main focus for the display case was dedicated to Day of the Dead and other traditions that are mainly from Mexico. Ms. Murchie finds Day of the Dead very interesting in that it dedicates a day to remembering our ancestors. Day of the Dead is celebrated Nov. 1 and Nov. 2.
Hispanic Heritage Month is a special month dedicated to different Mexicans around the world, they celebrate different cultures that all mean something very special to them, and Ms. Murchie wants everyone to see how beautiful and interesting the cultures are. For example, she added information
about marigolds and how Hispanics believe that they lure souls back from the dead with their vibrant colors and powerful scents. Another example is “Calaveras De Azucar” (Sugar Skulls), which are often decorated in bright colors and the candies can be eaten or they can be left for the dead.
In a perfect world, Ms. Murchie would spread Hispanic culture in more ways. She would encourage staff and students to dress up in Hispanic clothing and to make Mexican food to immerse themselves in the culture. Ms. Murchie also has plans to add flags from every Hispanic country to display around the school.
