The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) recently ran a full page print ad in the international magazine Caribbean Travel and Life. This ad cost US$15,000. In the ad a writer gives his recollections of Belize and in it uses the name Andy Palacio. The ad states, “My divemaster, Andy Palacio, now a friend. No strangers here.”

So when I read the ad from the BTB using the name Andy Palacio, I found it insulting. I understand that there is an Andy Palacio dive instructor in San Pedro.  The point is that when we see the name Andy Palacio, a dive instructor is not what should come to mind.

Andy Palacio is a name we should treasure and respect and not allow to be used in a way that can be confusing and trivial.

We in the cultural community should ensure that Andy Palacio’s legacy is promoted in the minds and hearts of our people especially the young. Kids should learn in school about this great music man who took the name and identity of his nation and people to the rest of the world.

The world respected and continues to honour Andy Palacio. So should we. The BTB ad should be pulled.

Yasser Musa

Image Factory Art Foundation