Though all across the U.S.
people are carving pumpkins, selecting monster masks and raking leaves,
here in San Cristobal October is evidenced only by the occasional black
and orange decorations on store fronts, the cooling weather, and the
omnipresent marigolds growing on roadsides, in fields, and soon to be
coloring the cemeteries and home altars for the Day of the Dead. At the
Peace House we'll most certainly be eating extra candy on Halloween and
a few Chiapans will go trick or treating (taking on this tempting
American tradition).

As we careen towards winter it's also a time
to take stock of what we've lost, however. This Day of the Dead a
coalition of San Cristobal women's organizations will build an altar to
remember the women who have been murdered in Chiapas and throughout
Mexico.

This month, Peace House volunteer Monica writes more
about the societal trends behind the alarming escalation of violence
against women. And this November 2nd as Mexicans enjoy family, memories
and traditional Day of the Dead foods, the United States will go to the
polls in an election that is as important to the world as it is to U.S.
citizens. Earlier this month Chiapas also held a hotly contested state
election. In this newsletter Melissa shares her experience as an
election observer in a rural community. There are interesting
similarities and contrasts between the often violent and corrupt
Mexican elections and the electoral landscape currently unfolding in
the United States. Fall wishes from the Peace House to you: may you get
all your favorite candy; may you remember your loved ones who are no
longer with us; may your vote count.