16 Days of Activism: ‘Gender-Based Violence Is Not Normal’

The annual Sixteen Days of Activism against gender-based violence began today with a launch at the House of Culture in Belize City. Now in its 33rd year, the initiative involves various organisations, including governmental, non-governmental, and private sector groups, all working to address gender-based violence.

The Chairperson of the National Women’s Commission, Thea Garcia-Ramirez, gave a powerful opening message, stating that it is not normal to get slapped at home because the food did not come out perfect or to get clobbered because you got home late. She emphasised the serious mental and health impacts of such violence and touched on the significant problem of gender-based violence in Belize. She stated that individuals have lost their lives because of gender-based and domestic violence.

The theme for this year’s event is “No Excuse” and Garcia-Ramirez pointed out that many forms of violence are deeply rooted in Belize’s culture and history.

The Sixteen Days of Activism in Belize is part of a global movement, marking key dates like the International Day to Eliminate Violence Against Women (November 25), World AIDS Day (December 1), and Human Rights Day (December 10). The event was preceded by a parade, aimed at raising awareness and advocating for an end to gender-based violence.