Belize City March Stands in Solidarity With Child Sexual Abuse Survivors

A solidarity march was held in Belize City today ahead of August 9, Child and Adolescent Sexual Violence Day. The initiative was inspired by Breeze of Hope, a Bolivia-based organization that has been promoting awareness and solidarity actions across the region. The march was organized by the National Women’s Commission, a government body that promotes gender equality and works to address issues affecting women and girls, including gender-based violence and abuse. The Commission partnered with the Belize Police Department, the Belize Coast Guard, the National Commission for Families and Children, the ministry of Human Development Families Support & Gender Affairs along with, non-governmental organizations and other stakeholders to stand in solidarity for victims and survivors. Participants gathered at Battlefield Park before making their way down Albert Street, continuing onto Dr. Dame Minita Gordon Drive (formally, Regent Street) and ending back at Battlefield Park. Executive Director of the National Women’s Commission, Eleanor Murillo, explained why Belize joined the regional initiative and the importance of standing in solidarity with survivors.

Murillo says the march is also a reminder that preventing abuse and supporting survivors requires collective action. Love News spoke with NCFC Executive Director Shakira Sutherland, Human Development Communications Officer Michelle Rodriguez, and NWC Program Officer Jared Coleman about their participation and views on the importance of the march.

Organizers say they hope the initiative will keep the conversation going and encourage stronger partnerships to help prevent sexual violence and create safer environments for Belize’s children and adolescents. /