Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance (see related story) closed with a powerful message of unity, as flags from across Latin America and the Caribbean appeared on-screen. Among them were those of Curaçao, Aruba and St. Maarten as well as Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba (so-called BES islands), highlighting their place within the broader regional and cultural community.
Performing primarily in Spanish, the acclaimed artist from Puerto Rico used the global stage to showcase Caribbean and Latino culture to millions of viewers worldwide. The half-time show was watched by a massive international audience and has since been widely discussed as a celebration of identity, pride and cultural connection.
It was praised by many for its bold cultural statement and representation. However, not everyone responded positively. US President Donald Trump criticised the show on social media, describing it as “disgusting” and “absolutely terrible.”
Despite the criticism, the performance is seen by supporters as a landmark moment for regional visibility on one of the world’s most-watched entertainment platforms.
It comes at a time of continued crackdowns on suspected unregulated foreigners by American authorities, with growing opposition in particular to actions by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. The broadcast may also have helped make people in other countries, considering visiting the US to watch FIFA World Cup games this summer, feel a bit more comfortable.
