Domestic violence awareness in Belize was the focus of a panel discussion hosted by the Love Foundation on December 9, 2024. The event took place at the Bliss Institute. It was titled “Promoting Respect and Equity Together: Our Collective Roles in Ending Violence Against Women and Girls.” In addition, it formed part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The discussion brought together professionals and students to examine domestic violence. It also explored the role communities can play in addressing violence against women and girls.
Domestic Violence Awareness in Belize
The Love Foundation was established in 2014. Since then, the organization has brought together people and resources to address national challenges through collaborative solutions.
The event opened with a welcome from Deborah Erskine, Managing Director of the Love Foundation. Rosanna Briceño, Special Envoy for Families and Children, also welcomed participants.
Furthermore, Rosanna Briceño delivered the keynote address. Her presentation highlighted the shared responsibility of individuals and institutions in helping to create safer communities.
A Panel of Professionals
Gender Specialist Ann Marie Williams moderated the panel discussion. Meanwhile, the panel brought together professionals with different areas of experience related to domestic violence and community support.
Azalia Larrieu, Clinical Social Worker and founder of META Belize, discussed the psychological impacts of domestic violence on victims and families.
Other panelists included Diana Shaw, Attorney at Law, and Inspector Shani Avilez, representing the BPD Domestic Violence Unit. In addition, Mindy Pratt, Program Director at Haven House Belize, joined the discussion.
Engaging Young People in the Conversation
An important part of the event was the question-and-answer session. During this session, students from invited high schools across Belize engaged directly with the panelists.
For example, students raised questions about domestic violence, relationships, gender stereotypes, and community responsibility. Therefore, the session gave young people an opportunity to hear different professional perspectives and participate in the wider conversation.
Finally, the program concluded with remarks from Kamesh Chivukula, Political Officer from the U.S. Embassy in Belize. According to the event program, his remarks reaffirmed the Embassy’s support for initiatives addressing gender-based violence and promoting equity.
Promoting Respect and Healthy Relationships
Events like this can create space for conversations about respect, healthy relationships, gender-based violence, and community responsibility. In particular, engaging young people can provide opportunities to discuss relationships and social expectations.
Moreover, access to accurate information can help young people recognize unhealthy relationship patterns and understand where support may be available. These discussions can also address respect, equality, boundaries, and safety.
Mental Health and Community Support
Domestic violence can affect individuals, families, and communities in different ways. Therefore, access to appropriate information and support is important. META Belize provides information about mental health services and additional mental health resources.
For more information about the organization that hosted the panel, visit the Love Foundation Belize.
You can also contact META Belize for information about available mental health services and support.
