Hand painted signs, or rotulos in Spanish, are traditionally used in Mexico to advertise businesses, announce upcoming events, and declare property for sale. In the tourist zones of Playa del Carmen, these rotulos have largely been replaced by modern digitally produced signage. But in the surrounding areas where most of us live, rotulos are still very prevalent.

Even public service announcements are painted on walls. In a previous entry, I shared pictures of three of these announcements. Today on my walk, I noticed an entire wall of psas on 20th Avenue between Constituyentes and Calle 20. Here they are with English translations.

“We work to confront obstacles and to put an end to violence against women and children. You are not alone. Integral Union for the Attention of Women” (Sorry, tough to translate the name of the organization.)

“Do you live in an environment where you are yelled at, humiliated or threatened? That is family violence! You are not alone. Integral Union for the Attention of Women”

“Love and family kindness, for a life without drugs. Call us …”

“My alcoholism damages whoever I love most. Family violence. Call us …”

“Be careful of addictions!” — The picture here is a play on words since ‘aguas con’, literally water with, is a colloquialism that actually means ‘be careful’.

“If you want to fly … Do it with a book. Never with drugs. Call us …”

“Pushes and insults are violence. Is that the kind of relationship you want to have? State Anti-Addiction Council. Call us …”

“There are so many things that you can do. To live without drugs, call us …”