Earlier this month Assad Shoman released the Sapphire Edition of A History of Belize in 13 Chapters. The cover of the book depicted the 1907 Coat of Arms, which was received by the public with mixed reviews. The Kriol Heritage strongly objected to the artwork stating that The depiction of Black figures features, quote, "exaggerated racial imagery" that evokes "degrading racial caricatures historically used to ridicule, dehumanize, and undermine the dignity of people of African descent." End quote.
When we asked the deputy prime minister for his opinion on the cover today he also shared that he was displeased with the image Shoman chose to use. He explained why.
Reporter
"What is your view on the controversy surrounding Assad Shoman's book cover that utilizes the 1907 version of the coat of arms? As you may know, the Kriol Heritage found issue with it since they believe it caricatures black people. Do you feel the same way or does he lean more towards Assad's explanation that this is a way of confronting the reality of colonization?"
Cordel Hyde, Minister of Natural Resources
"I really don't like it I think that Asad could have left well alone he really didn't need to go there he doesn't need to go there to boost interest in his book to provoke reaction the truth of the matter is that any new book from Assad, and any reprint from any book from Assad is a must read. He really should have left well alone he really shouldn't have gone there think he went too far and it just makes me wonder it just makes me wonder."
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