BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC – The Belize government and the country’s tourism board say they intend to “take a firm stance against any derogatory comments by licensed tour guides toward visitors,” amid reports that racist remarks were made online by a licensed tour guide against Miss Universe Ivory Coast, Olivia Yacé, during her recent visit to Belize.
“The recent social media incident involving a licensed tour guide is highly inappropriate and warrants disciplinary review. The Tour Guide Committee has been notified and will address this matter in accordance with the regulations, including any appropriate disciplinary action,” the Ministry of Tourism and the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) said in a joint statement.
They said Belize is a “warm and welcoming nation, and this behavior does not reflect how we receive our guests.
“Our licensed tour guides are professionals who are held in high regard and play an important role in representing our country. The actions of this one individual do not define the standard of the many who uphold these values every day.
“Every licensed guide bears a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect for all persons, without exception. Belize’s reputation for friendliness and inclusivity is one we are proud of and one we will vigorously protect,” the statement added.
The statement gave no details regarding the incident. Still, media reports said that Yacé was in Belize collaborating with Miss Universe Belize, Isabella Zabaneh, and became the target of the racist slur after the two posted a photo together.
The media quoted Zabaneh as saying that she was disappointed that such a remark came from someone tasked with welcoming visitors. At the same time, Yacé urged young women to stay positive in the face of negativity, adding that the incident would not affect her warm impression of Belize.
The licensed tour guide has since issued an apology.
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