Peter Vickery: Apologizes for Margarita Madness promotion

I offer an apology in connection with Margarita Madness, a yearly networking event of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce and one that many of our members and friends in the community look forward to every spring (“Chamber removes video promos,” April 20).

Margaritas contain tequila, which is produced primarily in the area around the city of Tequila and the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. Accordingly, the annual event has carried Mexican connotations.

But, in promoting the event this year we used Mexican cultural clothing (specifically hats) as costume. This was wrong and it caused distress. It was the source of genuine hurt to individuals in our community who have shared their feelings with me face to face.

I apologize unreservedly and unequivocally. There is plenty of sadness in the world as it is, and I am sorry for having added to it. We are learning and will do better.

Peter Vickery

Amherst

The writer is president of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce.