Last Monday, November 25, the Ministry of Public Service commemorated the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This campaign will be observed globally from November 25 to December 10.
As part of these days of activism, the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus spearheaded a one-day forum on the Convention of the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), held on Wednesday, November 27 in Belize City.
The Women’s Parliamentary Caucus was recently established by the National Assembly as a joint standing committee made up of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association states the importance of these establishments as a space for women Parliamentarians from different political parties to unite in solidarity in championing and promoting women’s empowerment, advocating for policy and legislative priorities for women, and strengthening women’s voices in Parliaments. Currently, the caucus is made up of 9 women in parliament.
Belize signed the Convention of the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women 34 years ago, in May 1990. This forum was organized as part of the many actions Belize has taken to support this convention and brought together leaders, advocates, and community members in a unified effort to raise awareness, show solidarity, and reaffirm our commitment to ending gender-based violence in Belize.
Before the forum’s opening ceremony, Licensed Clinical Therapist Azalia Larrieu was invited to lead participants in a guided mindfulness exercise that incorporated mind-body integration within the topic of trauma.
“Today, I embrace that fire as we gather to confront the systemic injustices that have tried to hold us back for far too long,” Mrs. Larrieu shared in her opening session. “Together, we will prove that assertiveness is not a flaw, but a force. And dominance? It is not a threat—it is the foundation of a new era of equality. Let us build it together.”
Topics and conversations surrounding gender-based violence can often trigger negative emotions, so as a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, it was imperative for her to prepare participants to hold space for these discussions.
She cautioned the audience stating, “The following forum will address sensitive topics surrounding mental health, gender-based violence, and trauma. Participants should be aware that discussions may include themes related to abuse, violence, and psychological distress.”
“This is a safe space where all voices are valued, respected, and heard. We encourage you to take care of your emotional well-being and engage at your own comfort level. Support resources will be available throughout the event, and if needed, you are welcome to visit the Mind Health Connect tabletop for additional support and information. Let us work together to foster understanding, healing, and empowerment in this shared space.”
Watch the Full Opening Here
In collaboration with META Belize, the not-for-profit mental health organization, Mind Health Connect, hosted a booth at the forum so attendees could ask questions and find relevant mental health resources. It was an honor for them to attend, share information, and foster discussions on gender issues and equality.
The forum’s first session was titled “CEDAW and Beijing+30: Women’s Rights—Exploring Obligations and Progress.” It featured presentations from Ms. Marion Bethel, the Vice Chair of the UN Human Rights Committee on Women and Girls Rights, and Ms. Tonni Brodber, the Representative of the UN Women Multi-Country Office—Caribbean. The discussion was moderated by Hon. Kareem Musa, Minister of Home Affairs & New Growth Industries.
Session two saw discussions led by two of the only four women in the House of Representatives: the Hon. Dolores Balderamos, Minister of Human Development, and the Hon. Tracy Panton, as well as Senator Sherene Golding Campbell of Jamaica. They shared their experiences in effective CEDAW implementation.
The Executive Director of the National Women’s Commission, Ms. Eleanor Murillo, and CEO Adele Catzim in the Ministry of Human Development held the forum’s last session with presentations on better practices for addressing Gender-based Violence in Belize.
Senator, Hon. Janelle Chanona who chairs the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus closed off the forum with an insightful reflection and words of encouragement.
Addressing the challenges of mental health, gender-based violence, and trauma requires more than individual effort—it demands collective action. Together, we can create meaningful change through shared projects, innovative initiatives, and continued services that amplify our impact.
