Colombia's Congress is considering a groundbreaking bill aimed at banning the sale of merchandise that glorifies Pablo Escobar, the notorious drug lord whose Medellín cartel once dominated the global cocaine trade. This proposed legislation seeks to end the celebration of Escobar, along with other convicted criminals, and address the stigma associated with Colombia's image abroad. With Escobar remaining an infamous figure in pop culture, the bill is sparking significant debate both within the country and internationally.
Pablo Escobar's legacy is deeply intertwined with Colombia's history. At his peak, Escobar and his cartel controlled about 80% of the cocaine entering the United States. His wealth and influence were so substantial that Forbes magazine listed him as one of the richest people in the world in 1987. Despite being killed by security forces in 1993, Escobar has achieved a cult-like status, immortalized in books, music, and TV productions like Netflix's "Narcos." Today, his image continues to adorn mugs, keychains, and t-shirts sold in Colombian tourist shops, capitalizing on his notorious reputation.
The bill proposes prohibiting not only the sale but also the use and carrying of clothing and items promoting criminals like Escobar. Medellín's mayor has publicly backed the legislation, referring to such merchandise as "an insult to the city, the country and the victims." The bill aims to shift focus from Colombia's drug-laden past to its more positive aspects, showcasing the country's rich culture and heritage instead of its association with drug lords.
"In Germany you don't sell Hitler T-shirts or swastikas. In Italy you don't sell Mussolini stickers, and you don't go to Chile and get a copy of Pinochet's ID card." – Juan Sebastián Gómez
Proponents of the bill argue that it's crucial for Colombia to engage in a national conversation about how it remembers its difficult history. Juan Sebastián Gómez emphasized the need for this dialogue, stating that these challenging issues cannot simply be reduced to souvenirs.
"Difficult issues that are part of the history and memory of our country cannot simply be remembered by a T-shirt, or a sticker sold on a street corner." – Juan Sebastián Gómez
Supporters believe that banning Escobar merchandise will help correct how his image is commercialized. Gonzalo Rojas highlights this as a pivotal moment for Colombia to reflect on its past and deliver more constructive messages to future generations.
"There needs to be more of an emphasis on how we deliver different messages to new generations, so that there isn't a positive image of what a cartel boss is." – Gonzalo Rojas
However, not everyone agrees with the proposed ban. For many vendors, Escobar merchandise represents a significant portion of their income. At least 15% of sales for some sellers come from Escobar products, with certain vendors reporting figures as high as 60%. They fear that losing this revenue could have dire economic consequences for their families.
"This Escobar merchandise benefits many families here – it sustains us. It helps us pay our rent, buy food, look after our kids." – Ms Montaya
The bill faces four stages before it can become law. If approved, there will be a defined transition period for sellers to adapt to the new regulations and phase out their Escobar stock. This gradual implementation aims to mitigate the economic impact on those dependent on these sales.
Despite the controversy surrounding Escobar's legacy, Colombia has much more to offer than its infamous drug-laden past. Sites like the former Avianca flight 203 bombing location, which was targeted by Escobar and killed 110 people, have been transformed into hubs of innovation and tourism. Vendors are eager to showcase Colombia's vibrant culture and move beyond its association with drug lords.
"I think the most important thing the bill can do is to generate a conversation as a country – a conversation that hasn't happened yet." – Juan Sebastián Gómez