Photo by RET

Article by Tareek Young, Communications Officer for RET Belize

BELIZE CITY, BELIZE – In late July, nearly 80 motivated individuals showed up in the early morning hours for the annual Shelters with Adequate Functioning for an Effective Response to Human Trafficking in Belize (SAFE Belize) Walk-a-thon. This event’s goal was to raise awareness of human trafficking under this year’s theme: “Together we can raise public awareness to STOP Human Trafficking in Belize.” 

Photo by RET

The event’s timing coincided with the commemoration of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, which is observed annually on July 30th. RET’s team began event setup in the early morning hours at DIGI Park, with Country Director Mrs. Cherese Ferguson, Monitoring & Evaluation Officer, Joshua Munoz, Project Officer (SAFE) Project Officer (PROTECT) and the CSO Coalition members all pitching in to ensure the event was a success 

Leading up to the event, the team made its rounds on various broadcast and media platforms, particularly the Love FM morning show and an interview on Channel 5 to generate public support for the event. 

The participants signed in and were given their event branded T-shirts and raffle tickets as the atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation for the start of the event. As those who had participated in previous walks greeted each other and welcomed the newcomers, RET Country Director Mrs. Cherese Ferguson opened the event with a brief speech, highlighting the purpose to continue raising the awareness of Human Trafficking in Belize.  

Photo by RET

After a prayer by Ms. Jenean Sabal, Mr. Stone Mariano led a 15-minute warm-up with the participants after which the walk began. The event took about 50 minutes in total as they left DIGI Park along the scenic Marine Parade coastline to the historic Memorial Park and back. The group was led by the RET in Belize truck that provided upbeat music to help set the pace for the walkers. 

Upon their return, they were greeted with refreshments and raffle winners were announced.  Raffle gifts were donated by Medina’s House of Jewelry, Chon Saan Palace, Krazzy Kupz, Simon Quan, A&R and the Stationery House. The excess refreshments were donated to the Dorothy Menzies Child Care Center in Belize City, which is a residential childcare facility which houses neglected, abused and dependent children.  As the event concluded, participants gathered for group photos sharing their enthusiasm for the event’s success and expressing excitement for next year. 

The enthusiasm and participation from the local community, as well as support from local businesses and other civil society organizations, all demonstrate the broader commitment in Belize to raise public awareness about – and ultimately combat – human trafficking in the country. Under the banner of SAFE Belize, RET has successfully formed a Civil Society Coalition Group, comprised of 14 members, which provides a space for networking, advocacy and coordination of CSO organizations actively involved in trafficking in persons efforts in Belize, especially those providing prevention and protection services including shelter and rehabilitation.  By involving a range of actors across Belize, we’re ensuring a durable solution for years to come. 

To help us continue this critical work in Belize and around the world, make a donation to RET today.