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In Latin America, primarily in Mexico, the Day of the Dead, referred to as Día de los Muertos, is an annual tradition that connects the living to family members who have passed away. The first two days of November are dedicated to lost loved ones with altars, known as ofrendas, decorated with marigolds, mementos, and other material things, as well as favorite foods that they enjoyed while alive.
Nike’s “Somos Familia” collection pays respect to Latin American culture with curated collections of footwear and apparel inspired by family and tradition.
We caught up with Houston Dynamo’s and the Mexican National Team’s Héctor Herrera about playing in Houston, the growth of MLS, and what it meant to receive the “Somos Familia” Air Max 1.
Read the translated interview below.
Nice Kicks: What was it like to receive the shoe from Nike?
Héctor Herrera: As a Mexican, it’s an honor to be able to get these shoes and for [Nike] to make shoes in honor of Day of the Dead (Día De Los Muertos). It’s a huge tradition in Mexico. My mother passed away, and this is a way to remember her. It’s an honor to be Mexican and to be a part of this collection.
NK: How important is it for brands to touch on Latin American tradition and other events?
HH: It’s important. The brands always intend to sign the best players and the best events and traditions, like Day of the Dead. It would be good for [brands] to do [collections] for other cultures and countries.
NK: How’s Houston and MLS been treating you?
HH: It’s different. The family is happy and has adapted. The [Houston Dynamo] is playing well. I’m enjoying MLS and [Houston’s] culture a lot.
NK: The league continues to grow with domestic players and international stars such as yourself, Carlos Vela, and most recently Lionel Messi. How important is that for the league?
HH: The arrival of Messi and [Sergio] Busquets and the ones before them has been very important for the league’s growth. More players of high quality will continue to join, and it’ll help the league become bigger than it already is.
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