January 2020, Belmopan, Belize: The Anti-Discrimination Steering Committee met with Pastor Scott Stirm, Pastor Lance Lewis, and Pastor Louis Wade of the National Evangelical Association of Belize (NEAB).

During the meeting, the NEAB Representatives were provided with an overview of the Equal Opportunities Bill, including on how the legislation operates in relation to people of faith. The Pastors expressed specific concerns about the Bill and engaged in constructive dialogue, which will continue. Clarifications were provided around how the legislation accommodates exceptions for religious organisations so as to ensure that freedom of expression and freedom of religion are respected.

The organizations championing the Equal Opportunities Bill, namely the National AIDS Commission (NAC), the Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation, Poverty Alleviation and the Office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children, would like to thank the NEAB representatives for accepting their request to meet and for engaging with the panel, composed of Mr Enrique Romero (Executive Director of the NAC), Mr Dwight Arnold (Monitoring and Evaluation Officer of the NAC), and Attorney Rashad Brathwaite (independent consultant and legal drafter).

The goal of this legislation is to improve the life of all Belizeans. The Bill will create a fairer society with improved public services, where businesses and everyday citizens can thrive. Our Constitution establishes the general principles for us to aspire to such a society, the Equal Opportunities Act will give us the practical tools and mechanisms to make this into a reality for all.

We encourage all Belizeans to make their voices heard. You too can take part in the consultation process around this Bill. Please send your submissions and requests for information or for a meeting with the technical team to the National AIDS Commission at the contact details below. We look forward to hearing from you.

National AIDS Commission

3803 Durgeon Drive, Coral Grove, Belize City

Email: info@nacbelize.org

Website: www.nacbelize.org

Facebook: National AIDS Commission

Office number & WhatsApp: 610-5051