Janet Silvera, Senior Tourism Writer

Washington, DC:

WORLD-RENOWNED scholar, trade union educator and political analyst, Professor Rex Nettleford, is urging Caribbean leaders to "expunge" the terms ethnic market and minority from their dictionaries.

Having earned the coveted Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) Lifetime Achievement Award, the professor, during his acceptance speech at the first Annual Tourism Summit in Washington, DC, on Monday night, told delegates: "The term I most dislike is ethnic market and we need to stop using it."

Discrimination

Black Americans, Hispanics, people from the diaspora and non-whites are targeted as part of the ethnic market.

Noting that many people with melanin had access to a "lot of dollars" and should not be discriminated against, the social and cultural historian said this was being reflected in the region's advertising and promotional activities to lure visitors.

Eliciting a lot of laughter from the audience comprising prime ministers, tourism ministers and industry stakeholders, Nettleford quipped that two years from now, a particular house in the United States may have to change its name.

He also urged the group not to forget the tremendous contribution to the Americas by leaders such as Marcus Garvey, whose efforts have been greatly downplayed in the United States.

Long service

Nettleford was selected for the award because of his long service and high performance in making a difference in the Caribbean. The award was given for his achieve-ment over a period of several years, noted CTO chairman, Allen Chastenet.

In fact, the Lifetime Achievement Award is awarded for accomplishments that distinguish the individual's work and, ideally, provide a legacy for future generations.

Jamaica's tourism minister, Edmund Bartlett, read the citation and presented the award on behalf of the CTO.

janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com