Andy Palacio died a year ago yesterday – and though he will never be forgotten, over the weekend a mass was held in his honour at the St. Martin De-Porres Church to celebrate his memory, his accomplishments and his contributions. And in an event worthy of the man who inspired it – it was rich in song and spirit.
Rafael Martinez,
“On the 24th this month in Barranco we are going to have a ceremony that we help our brother on his way so heaven will definitely be a happier place when they learn about paranda.”
Loretta Palacio,
“His life touched us in a real and meaningful way. His music still speaks to us deeply. This man from Barranco became a shining light for his people, for his nation and the world. From New York to Tokyo, from Gaza to Los Angeles, from Hopkins to San Pedro Sula, people have felt the magic in his voice, the energy and urgency in his music. Now we gather to reflect and recognize that life is something so special that a legacy must endure.”
Rafael Martinez,
“Andy, nobody can actually say anything that can encompass what Andy is all about. Andy has transcended so much, so many realities; a linguist, a dancer, a musician, a teacher and the list goes on. I want to remember Andy as he was but on the adverse side I want to remember Andy for the lesson he taught us, that health must not be taken for granted, must not be taken for granted. Quite a few of us in the Garifuna race, the Creole race, black folks especially, are suffering from hypertension, diabetes and the adverse effects of cholesterol and it is sad to say that those were the cause of our brother’s, friend, dad’s departure out of this world as we know it.”
The young Andy P. protégé is Ivany Neal. In keeping with Garifuna tradition, spiritual ceremonies to send his spirit onward will also be held in Barranco Village in the coming days.
