Stanley Lizama’s House of Patriotism

Patriotism is the deep love, devotion, and sense of pride one holds for their country. It’s a commitment to the nation’s values, culture, history, and future. Acts of patriotism can be as simple as preserving and protecting the environment through cleanliness, a quiet yet impactful expression of civic pride. However, this pride often takes on a more visible form in Belize during the month of September, when citizens go the extra mile to decorate their surroundings, showcasing their national spirit. Last week, we shared the story of a woman who proudly adorned her bike for the Fire Engine and Tenth Parade. This week, we turn our focus to a man known to many for his unwavering sense of nationalism. Though he humbly claims that his efforts aren’t for the spotlight, we believe his dedication deserves recognition. Here’s his story.

 

Sabreena Daly, Reporting

He’s a self-styled marshal, leading festive parades during the September celebrations. On Carnival Day and for the  Tenth Parade, everyone looks forward to seeing the faithful presence of Stanley Lizama.

 

Stanley Lizama, Patriotic Belizean
“Well, it’s something you have to love. You have to love your country.”

 

His presence on Carnival Day heralds the arrival of revelers from participating mas bands. But his involvement goes as far back as the early nineties, as the former Carnival King for six consecutive years.

 

Sabreena Daly

“What was carnival like at that time?”

 

Stanley Lizama

“Carnival was very great. I met new friends. Not like now where people fuss and put things on facebook. You could go to any camp. If you needed a glue gun or wire, they welcomed you just like you were with your neighbor.”

 

While he no longer competes for the coveted titles, Lizama shares that his role in the annual Carnival Road March holds deep personal significance for him.

Stanley Lizama

“When I lead that carnival, sometimes people don’t realize I drop my tears. I’m so happy to see my Belizeans on the route cheering for me and looking forward to seeing me out there.”

 

And on September Tenth, Stanley Lizama is front and center displaying historical themes of Belize with his regalia. But when the parades draw to a close, Lizama goes the extra mile to express his love for the country through the elaborate decorations he displays at his home for the festivities. If you’re unfamiliar with the significance of September Tenth, a glimpse of Lizama’s decorated entrance might offer a hint of its story.

 

Stanley Lizama

“Well, I’m trying to share the Battle of St. George’s Caye because the four guys that came down the river from Flowers Bank, they didn’t have outboard machines. They paddled down the river, so that’s why the paddle is out there.”

 

His creativity truly comes to life at this time of year, as he skillfully repurposes materials to create the display he envisions.

 

Stanley Lizama

“I’ll tell you, what you throw away I’ll pick up. That is a piece of an old cast iron from a sewage pipe. That’s an old sewage pipe. But it’s shaped like a cannon, that’s why I set it there as a cannon.”

Sabreena Daly

“Talk to me about what neighbors would say when they see your display on a yearly basis.”

 

Stanley Lizama

“Well, my neighbors would say, “Man, you’ve brought out something new! I’m going to take my picture”. Everyone comes to take pictures and i dont charge to take them. There’s even a guy from LA, whenever he comes, he would bring his family to take pictures.”

 

Lizama’s friendly neighbor, Richard Gabourel, shared that these displays are a yearly tradition. He views them as a heartfelt effort and act of love from Lizama for his community. Despite the limited recognition, Gabourel takes pride in seeing this tradition continue year after year.

 

Richard Gabourel, Neighbor

“I’ve noticed that for all these years, nobody has recognized his effort. He does this every year, annually. We do this for Halloween, tenth of September, nineteenth of November. We do this for Easter. We do this for Cross Country and we’ve always had  everything here for that time.”

 

Regardless of recognition, Lizama remains committed to his patriotic efforts. He encourages all Belizeans to fully embrace the festivities and show love and support for one another.

Stanley Lizama

“Be strong, show love to each other and be together as much and let this September, Independence and celebrations be good.”

 

Looking on the Bright Side, I’m Sabreena Daly.