Belize CeDoSTALC Report 2018

Table of Contents Introduction 1. REDLACTRANS, 1 2. CeDoSTALC, 2 Trans In Action Belize (TIA), 4 Situation of Trans Women (persons) in Belize, 5 Methodology for surveying cases, 6 Human Rights Violation of Trans Women in Belize, 7 A. Human Rights to Equality and Non-Discrimination, 7 B. THE RIGHT TO GENDER IDENTITY, 10 C. THE RIGHT TO LIFE AND PERSONAL INTEGRITY, 11 D. HATE SPEECH, 13 E. THE RIGHT TO EDUCATION, 15 F. THE RIGHT TO HEALTH, 17 G. THE RIGHT TO WORK, 18 H. ACCESS TO JUSTICE, 20 RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE COUNTRY OF BELIZE, 23 References Cited, 25 Contact details, 25

Introduction 1. REDLACTRANS Headquartered in Buenos Aires, Argentina, REDLACTRANS is an international organization that was established in 2004 and is currently home to 25 regionally based organizations which are managed by mostly Trans persons. In short it is an organization for Trans persons by Trans persons. The geographic region which REDLACTRANS encompasses can be found on the North America and South America continents it also includes many Central American and Caribbean countries.

Current members of The Latin American and Caribbean Network are: Argentina, Barbados, Bahamas, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Dominican Republic, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago and Uruguay.

The main aim and objective of REDLACTRANS is to build capacity in each of its 25 jurisdictions through networking to promote the ideals of inclusion and participation without discrimination of any kind, with particular emphasis on gender equity, culture, respect for ethnicity, gender identities and expressions, age, country of origin and socioeconomic and cultural situation.

The general objective of REDLACTRANS is "that all trans people of Latin America have guaranteed all their rights", and four specific objectives: 1. Ensure documentation, systematization, complaints and follow-up of cases of violence or hate crimes against Trans people; 2. Promote legal frameworks and public policies that respect the rights of transgender people in Latin America and the Caribbean; 3. Strengthen the capacities of the different organizations o REDLACTRANS to seek selfsustainability with programs and resources; and 4. Contribute to reducing the incidence of HIV in female transgender people through prevention strategies, access to health services and active participation in national responses against HIV;

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2. Documentation Center and Trans Situation in Latin America and the Caribbean (CeDoSTALC) REDLACTRANS as the parent body of CeDoSTALC recognized from the inception that there was an urgent need to develop and implement a data collection and management system that would allow it to better serve its 25 members. Although some member-states are more advanced in the collection of data there are a few members who lag behind with information gathering because they lack the infrastructural framework. Government and Non-governmental offices who should specialize in data gathering for Tans persons do not keep a database. TIA-Belize has only recently begun to collect data in 2018. Its database is very limited with 13 reposted cases from 2017 to January 2019. For the calendar year 2018 there are only six (6) official reposted cases to TIA. Another local organization with limited collected data on the LGBTI community is the United Belize Advocacy Movement (‘UNIBAM’) which is based in Belize City, Belize. TIA Belize further collaborates with the following organizations Our Circle and CNET+.

In 2015, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (“IACHR”) recommended to systematically collect statistical information on violence against LGBT persons in Latin America and the Caribbean. In general, there are no epidemiological and socioeconomic data that facilitate comparison between countries, and the existing ones do not provide enough information for decision-making related to the response to HIV / AIDS, considering the particularities of the Trans population. These statistics indicate that one of the most extreme forms of stigma and discrimination against Trans people in Latin America is social and institutional violence (REDLACTRANS, 2009).

Globally the Latin-Americans nations have some of the highest crime and violence rates. The same discrimination and violence is often brought to the members of the LGBIT Community. Due to stigma and ignorance many Tans persons are deterred from reporting the violence which is perpetrated against them for fear of further retaliation against them for making the report. In instances many members of the Trans community are reluctant to make reports because they feel that the police or law enforcement agencies will ignore their complaints. In comparison to its Latin American counterparts Belize is no exception when it comes to crime and violence. In January 2019 Belize was ranked fourth globally with a high murder rate at 44.7/100,000 per capita in 20181. For a country of approximately 360,000 persons the homicide rate is extremely high. Belize recorded 145 murders for 2018 calendar year which was slightly higher than that of 2017 (at 142 murders). United States Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic security: 2

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www.trendrr.net www.osac.gov

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In order to assists its members to build capacity REDLACTRANS in conjunction with CeDoSTALC which provides up to date information for the lodging of complaints pertaining to bullying, human rights violation in areas of institution violence and access to health care. The public sector should be the key recipient of the complaints and the body designated to address those matters complained about.

Due to the inaction of the government agencies in Belize small private and NGO are left with the task of gathering data for the CeDoSTALC project. The amount of violence or bias faced by the Belize Trans person community is unknown for two reasons; many incidents go unreported and many reported incidents are improperly addressed by the relevant authorities or not addressed at all. It would be safe to assert that there are more unreported incidents of violence against members of the LGBTI community than documented violations.

As a small developing nation Belize experiences the same challenges and difficulties as its other fellow CeDoSTALC members. The local government has been forced to spend a disproportionate part of its annual budget on fighting crime and crime prevention. Hence, it does not place a high priority on focusing on human rights matters.

Although violence in Latin America and the Caribbean affects the entire population of Belize, Trans people suffer tremendously from being victims of hate crimes and the impunity surrounding these crimes. Social stigma and discrimination increase when Trans people acquire HIV / AIDS. Further challenges are created when Trans person attempt to obtain medical treatment, counseling and support.

Given the success achievements by the CeDoSTALC project, REDLACTRANS has taken the decision to expand its database system to include the English Caribbean countries.

REDLACTRANS recognizes the support provided by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Wellspring Advisors, Robert Carr Civil Society Networks Fund, Heartland Alliance, and International HIV / AIDS Alliance during the documentation work and preparation of this report. This process has shown that working in partnership statistical information on violence against LGBT persons in Latin America and the Caribbean.

There are no systematically reliable comprehensive data that which can be utilized for meaningful analysis between member states, while the existing information do not provide enough information for decision-making related to the response to HIV / AIDS, considering the particularities of the Trans population. These statistics indicate that one of the most extreme forms of stigma and discrimination against Trans people in Latin America is social and institutional violence (REDLACTRANS 2009 and Belize Annual Report 2016-17).

The aim and objective of the data collection project by CeDoSTALC is to establish good and best governance practices within its regional jurisdictions. Violence in Latin America and the Caribbean affects the entire population inclusive of those in the LGBTI and Trans person’s communities.

One such instance occurred in San Pedro Town, San Pedro Ambergris Caye, Belize District, on 17 May 2018, where Trans woman Angie GonzĂĄlez was attacked by an

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unknown couple (woman and her boyfriend) in the streets of San Pedro Town. She suffered a busted scalp which was reported to the San Pedro Police on the same day. No action was taken by the police (Reporter: Zahnia Canul of Belize City). The police are aware of who the assailants are but refuse to act.

In another well-known undocumented bias incident in Belize City Vanessa Champagne was attacked by a mob. This incident was widely reported by local mass media networks and was also condemned by the international human rights agencies. Vanessa was the victim of a vicious attack by a mob of young men on Vernon Street in Belize City. No one came to her rescue, some of the by passers who recognized Vanessa as a Trans woman and began to pursue her, throwing stones and hurling insults at her. It is believed that the attack was a result of Vanessa work in the LGBTI community through the UNIBAM. It is uncertain if any arrests were made and if anyone was convicted. It is the culture of the police or law enforcement not to act on matters relating to the LGBTI community.

For this project and other global initiatives REDLACTRANS (CeDoSTALC) recognizes the support and partnership provided by the following international human rights groups: Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Wellspring Advisors, Robert Carr Civil Society Networks Fund, Heartland Alliance and International HIV / AIDS Alliance.

TIA-Belize (Trans In Action-Belize) Belize is one of the more recent countries to join REDLACTRANS. Trans In Action Belize (‘TIA-Belize’) Was established on 30 December 2014 and is headquartered in Belize City, Belize. It is a duly registered and incorporated Non-profit Organization under the Companies Law of Belize 2011.

The main objects of TIA-Belize are: to educate members, promote human rights, increase knowledge, build capacity, develop sustainability and generate support for Trans persons in Belize. TIA-Belize is a recent member of the Centre for the Documentation and Situation of Trans People in Latin America and the Caribbean (‘CeDoSTALC’).

Founding Members of TIA-Belize are: 1.

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3.

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Mia Quetzal Jessie Grey Pazy García Samantha Triminius Zahnia Canul

The current Executive members of TIA-Belize are: President, Zahnia Canul; General Secretary, McElroy Garcia; Vice President, Kenny White; Treasurer, Karl Wade

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TIA-Belize has coupled with other governmental and non-governmental organizations in order to build capacity in an effort to serve it members and members of the LGBTI community nationwide. TIA-Belize has the following 4 priority areas: Priority Area 1: Elimination of Stigma and Discrimination against TRANS Priority Area 2: Promotion and defense of TRANS Human Rights Priority Area 3: Empowerment through Education and Support Priority Area 4: Organizational Development and Sustainability

Situation of Trans Women in Belize Belize is a small newly independent nation of approximately 360,000 inhabitants. It has approximately nine cultural groups which coexist within its 8,867 square miles. It is a legacy from the United Kingdom which granted Belize its independence on 21 September, 1981.

There is no ministry, agency or department in the Belize government that is responsible for data collection pertaining LGBTI or Trans Person or human rights.

Therefore, the CeDoSTALC initiative to gather data on Trans person is timely for members of the LGBTI community in Belize.

TIA-Belize is the only group in Belize which is designated for the support and protection of Tans persons in Belize. There are about 20 groups nation-wide which have dedicated their resources to the assisting members of the LGBTI community country wide.

TIA has two representatives who are responsible for the gathering of data nationwide.

Safira Cobb who lives and works in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye and Zahnia who live and works from Belize City. There are not many Tran’s persons resident in Belize City.

According to TIA-Belize the most of Tran’s person live and work outside of the big cities and towns and are mostly employed in the tourism and hoteling industry. It is relatively unknown how many Tran’s persons exist in Belize.

Over the last 30 years Belize has played host nation to many migrants from our Central and Latin American neighbors. During this period, it is estimated that in excess of 60,000 documented and undocumented migrants have settled in Belize since independence.

It is to be noted that there are many Trans persons who have migrated to Belize in this estimated number. There are also many undocumented Trans persons who have migrated to Belize from its neighboring non-Latin American countries.

Collected data will assist REDLACTRANS (CeDoSTALC) in making informed decisions and to punish and deter violence perpetrated against of the Trans persons community regionally. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights hailed the launch of the project as “a member state”.

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At page 4 of US Government Integrated Report on Belize 2018, The United States Embassy Belmopan, on 29 October 2018 highlighted in Mission Goal on Governance 3: Support to citizens of Belize to hold the government accountable for increased adherence to democratic values and protection of human rights, especially for vulnerable populations including women, persons with disabilities, and the LGBTI community.

In the field of the political bodies of the Organization of American States (“OAS”), since 2013, the OAS General Assembly has included in its resolutions a call to the States to produce statistical information about violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity with a view to fostering public policies that protect the human rights of LGBTI persons. This commitment undertaken by the States at the International offices has been accompanied by a similar recommendation by the IACHR, who has urged the OAS Member States to “take measures and to allocate adequate resources to collect and analyze statistical information systematically regarding the incidence and nature of the violence and the discrimination against LGBTI persons or those perceived as such.”

In the absence of proper accurate data the various international agencies and support groups are unable to effective chat a way forward for the members of the LGBTI community and in particular Trans persons.

Because there is no political agenda to support or hide the findings or facts or figures collected by CeDoSTALC should be fully disclosed. If studied closely the deficiencies and areas of concern will be heighted. Once the findings are made public then law makers in Belize will have sufficient work before them in order to close the gaps that exist in the laws of Belize. As it stands Belize laws were not written to encompass members of the LGBTI community or Trans persons. The most recent Substantive Laws of Belize are dated 2011 and come into force in 2015. From its enactment the Belize parliament has passed many amendment laws to try and make the 2011 substantive laws more current. However, none of the newly passed amended legislations between 2015 and January 2019 addresses human rights or LGBTI issues.

Methodology for surveying cases There are some governmental agencies or departments that collect data such as the court, Family Court, Police, Human Development Office, Belize Family Life Association, and other health care providers. The Office of the Ombudsman also collects data under a human rights agenda. There is no comprehensive databank in Belize. Each agency, department or ministry collects and monitor its own information. The database housed by TIA-Belize was only started in 2017. Hence, information is limited. The data collection for the 2018 report was mostly undertaken by the local organization, TIA-Belize. It is the first organization in Belize with a main concentration on Trans rights. TIA-Belize has its headquarters in Belize City, Belize. We also used other collected data from UNIBAM such as reported and unreported incidents to the police and the gathering of data from the local mass media. We also considered reports from other agencies or organizations that highlighted LGBTI rights in Belize.

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Human Rights Violation of Trans Women in Belize A. Human Rights to Equality and Non-Discrimination Although Belize has limited or no legislation which protects the rights of members of the LGBTI community there are some international human rights treaties and conventions that Belize have signed and ratified. Further, there are many human rights international legislation which have been signed by Belize but not ratified. The international community (UN and OAS) has pressured Belize to ratify and enact and enforce such treaties and conventions for many years. Belize has remained unresponsive. For the treaties that Belize has not ratified, they remain unenforceable. In short there is no specific legislation in place in Belize that offers protection to members of the LGBTI or Tans person’s community.

ORIGINS OF THE INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS SYSTEM Belize has signed onto eight (8) Conventions. They are: 1.

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Charter of Civil Society for the Caribbean Community Charter of The Organization of American States Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment Inter American Democratic Charter International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights The Convention on the Rights of the Child United Nations Charter Universal Declaration of Human Rights

United Nations Charter Para 4 - We the Peoples of the United Nations Determined: to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small Article 1 (3) - One of the purposes of the UN - Article 1 (3): to achieve international cooperation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian character, and in promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and for fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion.

Articles 55 & 56 Article 55 - With a view to the creation of conditions of stability and well-being which are necessary for peaceful and friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples, the United Nations shall promote: a. higher standards of living, full employment, and conditions of economic and social progress and development;

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b. solutions of international economic, social, health, and related problems; and international cultural and educational cooperation; and c. universal respect for, and observance of, human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion.

Article 56 - All Members pledge themselves to take joint and separate action in co-operation with the Organization for the achievement of the purposes set forth in Article 55.

KEY INTERNATIONAL/REGIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS LEGISLATIONS and TREATY BODIES Universal Declarations on Human Rights of 1948 Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago have all acceded to/ratified this Convention. They are also members of REDLACTRANS. Scope of the rights covered “The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights is a United Nations treaty based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, created in 1966 and entered into force on 23 March 1976. Because the Universal Declaration of Human Rights contained both firstgeneration civil and political rights and second-generation economic, social, and cultural rights, it could not garner the international consensus necessary to become a binding treaty.

Particularly, a divide developed between capitalist nations such as the USA, which favored civil and political rights, and communist nations which favored economic, social and cultural rights. To solve this problem, two binding Covenants were created instead of one: The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights. The former is monitored by the Human Rights Committee, a group of 18 experts who meet three times a year to consider periodic reports submitted by member States on their compliance with the treaty. Members of the Human Rights Committee are elected by member states, but do not represent any State. The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights contains two Optional Protocols. The first optional protocol creates an individual complaints mechanism ……“ https://unchronicle.un.org/article/international-human-rights-law-short-history The Substantive Laws of Belize at Chapter 4, Constitution of Belize 2011 as amended in 2017 which reads broadly like the Articles set out in the 1948 Human Rights Convention encompasses the aims and objectives that were stated in later years.

From sections 3 to 22 of the Belize Constitution guarantee the some of the same protection of fundamental rights and freedom offered under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1948 and 1966 treaties. The following are the sections of the Belize Constitution which duplicates some articles of the UN Convention on Human Rights:

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Protection of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms (sections 3 - 22) Belize Constitution: 3.

Fundamental rights and freedoms.

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Protection of right to life.

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Protection of right to personal liberty.

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Protection of law.

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Protection from inhuman treatment.

8. Protection from slavery and forced labour.

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Protection from arbitrary search or entry.

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Protection of freedom of movement.

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Protection of freedom of conscience.

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Protection of freedom of expression.

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Protection of freedom of assembly and association.

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Protection of right of privacy.

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Protection of right to work.

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Protection from discrimination on the grounds of race, etc.

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Protection from deprivation of property.

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Provisions for periods of public emergency.

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Protection of persons detained under emergency laws.

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Enforcement of protective provisions.

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Protection of existing laws.

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Interpretation and savings.

If or when a challenge is mounted again the Belize Government or a private or public body the legal representative must use a purposive approach by including case laws, local legislation, treaties and conventions in order to challenge the inadequacies of the local law. There are no specific laws in Belize which protects for persons from the LGBTI community. Advocates and Lawyers bring or defending an action under the human rights banner need to use a purposive approach.

The international legal framework to which Belize has membership (Commonwealth, OAS, UN and CARICOM) allows local practitioners to use a broad-brush approach when seeking to issue proceeding or to defend an action. The benchmark case of Caleb Orosco v Government of Belize (2010) is illustrative of this principle. The Orosco case is before the Belize Court of Appeal. During its last Court of Appeal session in October 2018 the Belize Government argued that the definition of ‘sex’ as it appears in local law should remain as stated in the local laws. On the other hand, Orosco contended that the definition of ‘sex’ is old and should redefine to include members of the LGBTI community.

The Belize Court of Appeal was asked to define with is the definition of ‘sex’ in Belize laws. Judicial activism will determine the laws for Belize and not the parliamentarians.

The fact that local law fails to address an issue should not be a deterrent for members of the LGBTI community. The state (Belize) should not have gone to the High Court of Justice to ask for a determination of what is the meaning of the word ‘sex’. Belizean parliamentarians should have drafted legislation determining the meaning of ‘sex’ as it relates to the laws of Belize. There are enough case laws, treaties and conventions which support modern day illustrations from which Belize can draw.

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B. THE RIGHT TO GENDER IDENTITY SOGI – Sexual Orientation Gender Identity SOGI initiative is still in its infancy stage in Belize. It will take dedicated major efforts for Belize to accomplish ground in matters relating to SOGI. The lack of basic resources coupled with the unwillingness of policy makers will prove to be a detriment to the LGBTI community of Belize. The US Embassy Belmopan issued statements during October 2018 which indicate that Belize needs to be more engaging and active when it comes to advancing matters pertaining to the vulnerable population.

There are no statutory provisions in Belize which expressly or impliedly address the issue of gender identity. This is one area which presents a challenge to the LGBTI or Trans persons in Belize. At present the only way a person can change his/her name is by Deed Poll. However, The Deed Poll only changes the name of the applicant and does not change the gender. The newly issued Deed Poll must be accompanied by the original birth certificate when attempting to do official business. The laws in Belize are not the only laws which are unaccommodating to members of the LGBTI community, The South American Nation of Guyana. Apart from Belize, The East African states of Uganda and Kenya are other example in the Commonwealth union where the laws make to provision for gender identity.

It is to be noted that during 2018 by legislation (Act 13 of 2018) the Belize Parliament moved the Department of Vital Statistics which is responsible for the recording of births and deaths from under the Registrar of the Supreme Court and placed it under the Ministry of the Attorney General (‘AG’). Mr. Michael Peyrefitte is the current Attorney General and a criminal lawyer. The AG has the power to effect change of how members of the LGBTI community swap their identities on official government issued documents and instruments.

If or whenever a member of the LGBTI community presents a government issued identification card for official business, no recognition is offered to the new change name.

Nationwide Sensitization is required in order to eradicate the stigma and hate that is associated with gender identity. There are numerous instances where members of the Trans community have been publicly physically attacked and law enforcement agents have refused to criminally charge the perpetrators of the violent acts.

TIA-Belize has designated data gatherers for Belize; Zahnia Canul of Belize City and Safira Cobb of San Pedro Town. According to Zahnia Canul, President of TIA-Belize, her organization has information concerning disgruntled members of the Trans community who have refused to personally report their incidents. On separate occasions two Trans persons were brutally attacked and assaulted in Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk District.

Both incidents remain unreported by the victims because they feel that the police will not charge the men who committed the offences. They are of the opinion that justice will not be served.

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The bias and discrimination shown to Trans persons and members of the LGBTI community is also shown towards advocates or lawyers who support or attempt to offer assistance to members of the LGBTI. On many occasions the local police would stop and harass members of the LGBTI community for no apparent reason. The officers as opposed to offering protection to harassed person instead they aggravate the situation.

Another academic institution in Belize which has undertaken the initiative to implement workshops and lectures pertaining to gender inequality is the University of the West Indies open campus (‘UWI’). During early December 2018 The UWI partnered with UNIBAM and offered a 3-day workshop on Sexual Orientation Gender Identity (‘SOGI’) inequality. Participants were issued certificate of completion. The UWI is contemplating the offering of similar type certification workshops regionally. This means that many regional CeDoSTALC (REDLACTRANS) member states will have the opportunity to participate in the workshops.

Similarly, the TIA in conjunction with the social work department of The University of Belize (‘UB’) conducted six sensitization lectures at the Belize City campus during the 2017-18 academic year. It was part of the University effort to being awareness to its student body.

For Belize the transition and sanitation of politicians and law enforcement agencies on matters pertaining to the LGBTI community and the Trans population will prove to be difficult given the current attitude of parliamentarians. In short Trans persons will be denied their basic rights and freedoms which are guaranteed under the Belize Constitution, the UN Charter and UN Declaration of Human Rights 1948.

C. THE RIGHT TO LIFE AND PERSONAL INTEGRITY The Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1948 (UDHR) guarantees the Right to life and personal Integrity: Preamble ‘Whereas the peoples of the United Nations have in the Charter reaffirmed their faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person and in the equal rights of men and women and have determined to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom……….’, Article 3 Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.

Article 22 ‘Everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security and is entitled to realization, through national effort and international co-operation and in accordance with the organization and resources of each State, of the economic, social and cultural rights indispensable for his dignity and the free development of his personality.’

Article 27 (1) Everyone has the right freely to participate in the cultural life of the community, to enjoy the arts and to share in scientific advancement and its benefits.

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The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) – is the designated body in the Americas to receive and address human rights violations. Where practicable it conducts hearings and issues decisions and opinions:3 Belize Substantive laws of at Chapter 4 (the Constitution) 2011 as amended in 2017 guarantees the same freedoms and rights as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1948 Articles listed above. The Belize laws although not specific in some areas can and should be read broadly (purposively) to give the interpretation which is sought. The enactment and enforceability of any provision or law rest in the hands of the legislative branch of government. Enforcing the international, regional and local laws are the key factors in determining whether members of the LGBTI or Trans communities will be able to enjoy their rights and privileges offered on local and international legislation.

The term more commonly used today is ‘hate crime’. For example, Incidents may involve physical assault, damage to property, bullying, harassment, verbal abuse or insults, mate crime or offensive graffiti or letters (hate mail).

A hate crime law is a law intended to deter bias-motivated violence, 4 The Criminal Code, Ch. 101, of the Laws of Belize 2011, as amended in 2017 fails to address offences or ‘hate crimes’ committed against persons of the LGBTI or Trans communities. The laws of Belize do not address ‘hate crimes’ specifically. However, given the broad scope of the laws of Belize hate crime offenders can be charged and convicted under the current statutory provisions. If convicted of a ‘hate crime’ against a member of the LGBTI community, there is no harsher sentence available for offenders. Even the everchanging times globally and locally the laws of Belize must be reflective to ensure personal integrity and a right to life is preserved.

During 2018 parliament on passed two pieces of legislations which addresses gangs and gang violence. It has been four years (2015) since the last Substantive Laws of Belize where enacted and none of its subsequent updates expressly includes human rights provisions.

Trans persons face or LGBTI local members have always faced discrimination in some way shape or form. The most common manner by which Belizeans show their discontent towards members of the LGBTI population is by assault (verbal or physical). The legal jurisdiction of England and Wales in the United Kingdom has changed its laws to encompass violations (bias offences) against LGBTI persons who are biased, assaulted or denied access to services of any kind. Convicted persons receive a harsher sentence as opposed to if the same offence was committed against a person who was not a member of the LGTBI population.

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www.oas.org/en/iachr/decisions/cases.asp www.google.com.bz/criminal+law+england+ and+wales+discrimination&oq

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In an incident which occurred on 11 May 2018 to Trans person, Shania, in San Pedro Town, Belize District, Belize where an employee of Tropic Airline, a domestic airline, illustrated bias and discrimination against Shania because she is a trans person. The Tropic employee shouted, ‘she is a transvestite’ in the airport waiting area. Shania took the opportunity to correct the male employee that she was a Trans woman. She lodged an official report (bias and discrimination) with Tropic Air who was unapologetic and as a result, terminated an employment contract with Shania’s employer.

To date no charges were brought against Tropic or its employee. No action was taken by Tropic Air to apologies to Shania or to put corrective measures in place.

Statistically, the police and government departments or agencies are unaware of the amount of reported ‘hate crimes’ this is because the management system is not configured to record such data. There is very letter offered by way of check and balance when a statutory body fails to act. For the Police there is an internal complaint system and a body known as the Securities Services Commission. The Office of the Ombudsman which is in Belize City have the statutory power to investigate the reason(s) the public body failed to act or to acted appropriately. The Ombudsman Office has a limited database on human rights complaints.

The watchdog group for the OAS is the IACHR which acts as the human rights regulatory body for the Americas. It normally condemns actions, improper acts or omissions which result in the breach of local or international human rights law were members of the Trans community or LGBTI are harmed or their property damaged.

In order to change the attitude of law enforcement agencies and private citizens towards members of the LGBTI community it will take an amalgamated effort on the part of the law makers, law enforcement agencies, the mass media, activists, and public sensitization. The stigma against the LGBTI community is cultural and it will take a major effort and huge sums of money to begin the transformation. The sooner the members of the LGBTI community realize that they have a powerful voting block the sooner law makers will enact new legislation.

D. HATE SPEECH International pressure is one way in which the LGBTI community has gained ground and achieved recognition. Developed economies such as the United Kingdom, the USA and Canada have all withheld financial support of other forms of foreign aid from developing counties who refuse to recognize and work with the LGBTI community.

The US Embassy Belmopan over the last 10 years has been very vocal about the current state of affairs as it relates to the LGBTI community. In order for Belize to receive foreign aid the US applied pressure by placing special conditions and terms to be met for the LGBTI population. The tactic used by the US on Belize, was also used by other developed countries on developing nations who were reluctant or slow bring change in there legislation.

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Hate speech – ‘The laws of some countries describe hate speech as speech, gestures, conduct, writing, or displays that incite violence or prejudicial actions against a protected group or individuals on the basis of their membership in the group, or disparages or intimidates a protected group, or individuals on the basis of their ...’5 The above mentioned actions in the definition have been carried out in Belize on a daily basis. The regrettable thing is that there is not much that members of the LGBTI community can do to seek protection. Time and time again Trans persons have made reports or complaints to the police or law enforcement who fails to act or to act adequately.

Some of the actions in Belize which are complained of are: gestures, speech or words, writing, conduct, battery and assault. The most common ways in which attacks or assaults are carried out on the Trans population are in groups or mobs. In instances where it is one person acting along, he is usually armed.

The local recorded cases above which occurred in Belize City in 2004, Guinea Grass Village in 2017 and Lords Bank Village in 2018 are clear examples of hate speech. The 2004 attack in Belize City on Trans girl, Vanessa was by a mob of men who threw rocks and bottles at her while shouting abusive words. The two attacks in Guinea Grass Village were done by individuals (men) who were armed. In all three incidents no arrests or charges were brought against perpetrators.

In a 2018 reported incident in rural Belize, Zahnia arrived home one day to find that the words, ‘she is a man’ were spray painted on the wall of her house. She immediately reported the incident to the Police who has refused to act. It was later discovered that young children of the neighborhood were responsible for the bias act. Recommendation – an official report should be filed against the police for failing to act to the Commissioner of Police and to the Police Professional standards branch. Justice delayed is justice denied.

In another 2018 reported incident, By Zahnia Canul – Mar Ewan (aka Mar), a trans woman of Corozal Town, Mar was heading home from the bus stop when Kenny Villanueva a local from her town walked up to her and punched (physical aggression and beating) her in the face for no reason. The assailant is known to harass her and discriminate against her because she is a trans woman. She tried to call the police on her cell phone but got no answer. So she ran home. Recommendation - she can write an incident report and submit it to the Corozal Town police station and wait about 4 weeks for an investigation and reply.

There is no limitation period to report such incidents to the police or Ombudsman.

Similarly in 2018, Safira Cobb reporter, Tomasa Lino – a Belizean, in conception Village, Corozal District, she was robbed and beaten while at her house where she lives by two men who she did not know. She reported it at the local police station. There was an investigation but no arrest resulted or no action was taken by the police.

Recommendation: is that a letter of complaint needs to be sent to the Office of the 5

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hate_speech

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Ombudsman and a copy of the same letter needs to be sent to the Professional Standards Brach for the Police. Thereafter, a record of the incident will be on file at the Police Headquarters and at the Ombudsman Office. If Police officers fail to act in a professional manner, then the Ombudsman has the power to intervene and force them to acts professionally. The matter can still be reported.

On a very rear occasion the local police acted within the scope of the law when they made a detention and arrest. By Safira Cobb, Trans woman Jaila Rivera, a Belizean of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, was walking home from work about midnight when she was followed and harassed by her ex-boyfriend. The incident was reported to the San Pedro Police who arrested and charged the ex-boyfriend. He is awaiting trial.

Recommendation is that she (Jaila) does not drop the charges before trial.

In Belize the Police will not act on a matter if a complaint is not lodged with them.

The police are the keepers of law and order and should not wait for a complaint to be recorded before they investigate a matter. Often in the local TV news the police officers who are interviewed would state that no complaint has been registered. Due to gang violence and to avoid reprisals many persons from the Trans community do not file an incident report with the police. As the law stands an automatic response from the police should occur whether or not the incident is reported.

The perpetrators of the hate crimes (speech) engage in a ‘copy-cat’ manner. That is, once an offence has been committed against a member of the Trans community then a series of attacks will are carried out countywide.

Belize has no specific laws to address hate speech. However, there are statutory provisions which address the definition as stated above. The UK has passed special legislation to encompass hate speech and hate crimes. The new laws offer a higher than normal sentence for offences committed against members of the LGBTI community or a member of an ethnic minority group (vulnerable population). Special training needs to be undertaken by members of law enforcement, by members of the public service and by the general public.

E. THE RIGHT TO EDUCATION Belize has signed onto many international treaties and conventions before it become independent in 1981. All treaties and conventions whether impliedly or expressly uphold the right and freedom of an education to all. The Belize Constitution also guarantees the right to an education. The educational system which exits in Belize was inherited from the British. Very little has changed since the colonial era. About eight years ago the Government of Belize began to offer a free education to all students on the primary and secondary levels.

Well before the enactment of the Substantive Laws of Belize there were other international provisions which Belize signed which offered the same protection under its national laws. Article 26 of the UDHR is one of such provision.

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Article 26 - Universal Declaration on Human Right 1948 ‘ (1) Everyone has the right to education. Education shall be free, at least in the elementary and fundamental stages. Elementary education shall be compulsory. Technical and professional education shall be made generally available and higher education shall be equally accessible to all on the basis of merit.

(2) Education shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It shall promote understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations, racial or religious groups, and shall further the activities of the United Nations for the maintenance of peace.

(3) Parents have a prior right to choose the kind of education that shall be given to their children……’

The Ministry of Education (MOE) is largely responsible for education in the Belize.

There is also a church-state school system is which many globally well-known religious organization have set up and operated their own primary and secondary schools. The churches work closely with the MOE since many of their institutions receive government financial support. Guidance for the operations and management of all academic institutions in the country is offered mainly through Chapter 36 (Education Act) of the Substantive Laws of Belize 2011. Although the main legislative framework is about eight years old it is still out dated. The 2011 law was enacted in 2015 to which many amendments and bills were passed thereafter.

Since the colonial era very little has changed. The traditional British school curriculum has changed to incorporate some new ways and means of teaching the North American methods or system. Each summer teachers on all levels are mandated to attend special training. The training programs do not include how teachers should and employees of the institutions should interact with students and members of the LGBTI or tans populations.

During the first week of December in 2018 the UWI conducted a certification workshop for service providers and government agencies that interact with members of the LGBTI community.

Like the Government the MOE has been slow in addressing discrimination in institutions. There are many students of the LGBTI population who are students on the secondary and tertiary levels. They have limited or no rights under the Education Act. There are no rules or directives in place to address the issues and concerns of students and employees on academic institutions to combat harassment or bullying or assaults or attacks on pupils of the LGBTI student body.

During 2009 the national new highlighted a story in which a 19-year-old transgendered student, of Camalote Village/Young Bank, who was formally threatened on multiple occasions with dismissal from the Belmopan Baptiste School of Adult Continuing Education because, according to the school, he “acts like a girl,” “dresses effeminately,” and “uses the female bathroom.” Of note is that the Minister of Education at the time 16

supported the school for the steps it took. The student was expelled a few weeks before graduation. She now works in the hospitality industry. It has been a decade since this issue was reported and the MOE or the Minister of Education, Hon. Patrick Faber has failed to take the required steps to include LGBTI pupils.

Many such incidents in the academic setting go unreported. The MOE although aware of the many societal changes which are occurring nationwide has been slow to enact legislation to address issues pertaining to the LGBTI community. The MOE Handbook is date 2012; it is about 2 decades behind in every aspect. The Canadians have passed laws which mandate that each academic system or institution must develop and enact policies to address issues concerning the SOGI/Trans community.

Internationally the UNDP and IACHR have been very vocal in their protest against institution and nations who are slow in bring about change in education.

It would not be in contravention of local laws for an institution to enact policies which address issues as they relate to the LGBTI pupils. The implemented policies would include the training of staff, teachers and students. For instance, instead of saying he/she, say students. As opposed to having only two bathrooms a school should have a third bathroom and changing room. The revolution must begin from within.

F. THE RIGHT TO HEALTH Like most members of the United Nations (UN) Belize has signed onto many treaties and conventions which replicate the themes, objectives, principles and rights for freedom and equality as the UN Charter. The international lobby for the right to equal and appropriate health care is one of the leading rights that economically derived citizens lobby for.

Belize is no exception being it is a developing economy. Most members of the Belize’s LGBTI community are from a low socio-economic background. The members who can afford health care can travel to neighboring countries to seek medical assistance.

Article 25 - (UDHR) ‘(1) Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control.

(2) Motherhood and childhood are entitled to special care and assistance. All children, whether born in or out of wedlock, shall enjoy the same social protection…..’

The Belize Substantive laws Ch. 40 (Public Health Act) 2011 and Ch. 40s the Public Health Act –Subsidiary 2011 are the main cornerstones on which the providers of and receivers of health care in Belize rest. There are other pieces of local regulations and mandates on which the administrators rely. Since Ch. 40 was brought into force in 2015

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only a few pieces of legislation were enacted. One is No. 52 of 2017 Belize National Aids Commission.

The basis of the current health care system on which Belize operates is a legacy from the colonial era. An overhaul of the health care system was attempted during the 1990’s to develop and implement a National Health Insurance scheme (NHI). The project was only partly successful and left most of the citizens without affordable health care. The plan to offer free or reduced health care was the main objective of the overhaul. Today the NHI health program mostly benefits Belize City residents and a few small communities’ in the southern districts.

Members of the LGBTI community face bias and prejudice whenever they try to access health care on any level. Medical assistance is mostly furnished through ploy clinics and public facilities. In 2018 Trans person ‘X’ visited a health clinic in Belize City for medical attention. She was harassed by employees of the health facility in each section of the clinic she visited. Unprofessional remarks were made to her about her identity from the security guard at the gate to the nurses who attended to her.

Sensitization is the key way members of the public will view and respond to members of the LGBTI community differently. Belize has members of the LGBTI and Trans persons working in every profession including the medical profession. Therefore, fellow members who require their services would need to identify those individuals and lend support until the stigma is reduced or removed.

Alternatively the GOB can open special facilities who members of the community can receive services free from stigma and harassment. The Dean Street Express, in London, England, UK is once such medical facility where the UK government establishes a special clinic which is managed and operated by members of the LGBTI community. This alternative could be set up in Belize by the GOB or by private entities. Everyone is entitled to health care, it is their right.

G. THE RIGHT TO WORK All the international legislations that Belize has signed onto and local provisions have expressed the right of citizen or residence to be entitled to work from of bias and discrimination. Very little has changed in the attitude towards Trans persons in Belize since independence. The laws make no provision for persons from the LGBTI community.

Locally Belize has enacted which is complemented by Handbooks on Rules, Regulations and Policies. The Ministry of Labour, Rural Development and Local Government is the governing body for The Labour Department. It is responsible for all work or labor related management and development. In addition to the main act (Ch. 297) local lawmakers have enacted The Free Movement of Skilled persons from the Caribbean with Act 12 of 2016. It is certain that members of the LGBTI community will utilize this legislation (12 of 2016) to enter and work in Belize.

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The US Embassy Belmopan release on Belize for October 2018, and the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) have characterized the labor situation as follows: ‘According to the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB), as of September 2016, the population is an estimated 377,968 persons of which 162,264 were in the labor force. As a result of influx into the labor market, the rate of both unemployment and the underemployment rose by one and three percent respectively. Of the 5,800 persons entering the work force, there were almost three times as many women (4,500) entering the work force than men (1,300). Still, women were more than twice as likely to be unemployed that their male counterparts. The female unemployment rate rose by 1.9 percent from 15.7 in September 2015 to 17.6 percent in September 2016…….’.6 There is no law that expressly protects Trans persons from discrimination in the work place on the basis of their gender identity. In this respect, the Labour Act of Belize only protects workers against the disciplinary sanction or dismissal based on ‘sex’. A purposive approach to legislative interpretation may be used to encompass gender identity in ‘sex’. This, however, has not been decided by any court in Belize and as such Trans persons are left in a state of uncertainty and, for all intents and purposes, unprotected.

Article 23. (UDHR) (1) Everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favorable conditions of work and to protection against unemployment.

Article 25. (UDHR) (1) Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control.

The definition of the word sex in the laws of Belize is currently up for redefinition by the Belize Court of Appeal. The benchmark case of Orosco (above) is seeking a re-definition of the word ‘sex’. At the last sitting of the Belize Court of Appeal in October 2018, Orosco asked for judicial Activism when he asked for a redefinition of the word ‘sex’ as it relates to gender in Belize and Belize laws. A decision is due sometime in 2019.

The current legislation as inherited from the United Kingdom excludes the allencompassing definitions or the words gender and sex. Other common wealth nations have redefined the words gender and sex to include members of the LGBTI community.

Belize is in its infancy stage as it relates to the shift in legislation.

Local laws do not address workplace bias and discrimination against members of the LGBTI community. In Supreme Court Claim 212 of 2002, a former soldier in the Belize 6

www.export.gov/article?id=Belize-Labor

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Defence Force, Sgt, Oscar Selgado challenged the Ministry of Defence, Attorney General of Belize and Government of Belize by way of Judicial Review and won based on procedural irregularity, proportionality and illegality. (Oscar Selgado v Attorney General of Belize, et al. 2002) This case was not filed as an LGBTI discrimination case, nor is it listed as a bias claim.

The transition to acceptance of Trans persons in our work force will be a long and slow process. It depends on the acceptance of the individuals who will be working with or interacting with daily.

The current legislation of the books, although not LGBTI specific, can be enforced to ensure that the inequality in the workplace is reduced and eventually removed. The sensitization process will take a long time before meaningful results can be realized.

H. ACCESS TO JUSTICE The Preamble of the declaration of Human Rights ‌.. ‘Whereas recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world".

Access to justice can be defined as a work in progress. There is constant revision of the laws, procedures on the applicability of the law, processes and results of the justice system. There are many international and local criticisms of the Belize Judiciary System.

The most recent protection under the Substantive Laws of Belize 2011 are: Chapter 101 Criminal Code Chapter 102 Crime Control and Criminal Justice Act Chapter 102S Crime Control and Criminal Justice - Subsidiary Act Chapter 91 Supreme Court of Judicature Act Chapter 91S Supreme Court of Judicature Act - Subsidiary Chapter 94 Inferior Courts Act Chapter 90 Court of Appeal Act Chapter 93 Family Courts Act Chapter 94 Inferior Courts Act Chapter 97 District Courts (Procedure) Act

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These statutory provisions were brought into force in 2015. Subsequent to their enforcement the Legislative are of the government has passed further supplementary acts with a view of plugging the gaps in the law. In 2018 the Belize Government passed 21 amendments to its Substantive Laws of which only three hold some relevance to the human rights movement. They are: 1. Immigration – 10 of 2018 amends nationality Act and Immigration Admiration; 2. Criminal Code – 6 of 2018 amended Public Suppression of criminal gangs; 3. Criminal Code – 17 of 2018 amended Crime and criminal justice on bail for gang members; and 4. Vital Statistics - 13 of 2018 amends improves the services for Registration of deaths and births was moved to the Attorney General from the Registrar General.

Judicial activism by way of case law or common law has also proven effective in removing the gaps in the law. After the 2011 Substantive Laws came into force in 2015, Lawmakers have been active. Two more recent pieces of legislation to be signed are: 12 of 2014 (Criminal Code) and 22 of 2017 (Criminal Code).

Unfortunately, there are no express provisions for the protection of Trans persons or members of the LGBTI community. A purposive approach would have to be taken in order to apply local law. One illustration is the Orosco case above.

Under and by virtue of the Treaty of Chaguaramus, in May 1974 Belize became a member of the Caribbean Community (‘CARICOM’) or economic community. The treaty offers all right, freedoms and privileges to its citizens as the Europe Union. This effectively means that an aggrieved member state or a citizen of a member state can sue another member state of CARICOM. The Belize Immigration Act Chapter 156, prohibits persons who are prostitutes or homosexuals from entering Belize. Section 5(1) (e) (‘the Act’). “any prostitute or homosexual or any person who may be living on or receiving or may have been living on or receiving the proceeds of prostitution or homosexual behaviour;” Under the Treaty of Chaguaramus, The Attorney General of Belize was sued by Maurice Tomlinson to challenged section 5(1) (e) of the Act before the Caribbean Court of Justice (‘CCJ’). In June 2016 The Jamaicans case was dismissed by the CCJ. Prior to issuing proceedings against the Belize Government Mr. Tomlinson visited Belize and was allowed entrance without a problem. Nonetheless, he issued proceedings against Immigration Department of Belize utilizing the treaty.

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The IACHR, OAS, Commonwealth and CARICOM of which is a member have all advised Belize on the need to bolster its judicial system to enhance the level of service given to vulnerable populations which include indigenous person and members of the LGBTI and Trans Communities.

As stated above local law enforcement agencies are slow to act when they receive complaints from members of the Trans persons or LGBTI community. The October 2018 US Embassy Belmopan; Report (Integrated Country Strategy Report) at page 3, states that Belize needs to effectively improve its access to justice to vulnerable persons which includes women, indigenous persons, gang members along with persons of the LGBTI Community.

As noted above, law enforcement officials have failed to adequately respond to violations against the Trans community based on the personal prejudice of the officers.

During the first week of December 2018 The Belize Judiciary underwent a special training program for Lower court and High Court Judges in Belize City. The enhancement training was conducted by highly trained Human Rights lawyers from the United Kingdom.

The seminar was the first of its kind. As of January 2019 it is hoped that I different approach will be taken by our Magistrates’ and Judges.

General Recommendations: The following suggestions are put forward with a view that CeDoSTALC (REDLACTRANS) and TIA undertake them: The right to equality and non-discrimination Although Belize does not have any Anti-discrimination laws on the books the Belize government can still be challenged by way of Judicial Review using a purposive approach with the current statutory provisions.

Belize has enacted enough local legislation which can be used to combat discrimination and inequality. Further has signed on to enough treaties and conventions which also provide the required legislation to fight discrimination and biases. Our problem is not legislation but more that of lack of sensitization and enforceability. Special training needs to be undertaken by local administrative bodies in order to sensitize the greater public on how to interact and address members of the trans community. Public campaigns through mass media is one-way change can be achieved.

International legislation which has been ratified locally can be enforced by domestic along with international agencies and departments.

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RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE COUNTRY OF BELIZE HATE SPEECH Enact more specific legislation that criminalizes hate speech. Before local legislation are enacted that needs to be a national campaign launched aimed at bringing awareness to the on ‘hate speech’. The all-encompassing campaign needs to be reflective of the definition as used internationally throughout the schools and private and public sectors. Judges and law enforcement should be educated on the new law since they will be enforcing it.

Further, members of the Bar Association and the legal community also need to be sensitized because they will be bringing and defending the human rights court actions.

RIGHT TO EDUCATION Belize has signed many international organizations and bodies which provide it with international funding for education. TIA- Belize and other interest groups need to bring pressure to MOE by stating that Belize is non-compliant with the rules that accompany international funding. That way Belize will be forced to address issues as they pertain to the LGBTI and Trans Persons communities.

There are simple steps which can be taken by the MOE such as: training for school executives and teachers, providing a separate bathroom for trans students, sensitizing the language used in schools, Bullying and engaging in a social media ongoing education program.

Provide equality and human rights sensitization training, particularly in the area of LGBT rights, for teachers and staff in schools, governmental officials at all levels, school safety officers and law enforcement officers.

RIGHT TO HEALTH Since there are members of the LGBTI community employed in the health care profession and medical profession, special facilities can be established where members of the LGBTI community provide professional medical services for it fellow LGBTI members.

This will help to illuminate much of the sigma and discrimination faced by Trans persons. I similar government provided facility exist at the Dean Street Health Facility in London, England. Alternatively, existing health care facilities can be used at specific times to provide care for members of the LGBTI community.

In the interim training program for health teams on health, gender identities, human rights and attention to Trans persons. Another viable alternative is for the LGBTIQ community to partnering with other Non-governmental agencies who furnish healthcare services.

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RIGHT TO WORK Belize is a member of CARICOM and Common Wealth apart from other international organizations Therefore there will be members of these economic markets who work are eligible to work in Belize. Our local legislation provides no protection for persons who work for the private or public sector in Belize. There are no known private sector entities in Belize that provide protection or police which ensure that Tran’s persons will be protected on a work site. Therefore Belizean and other persons that work in Belize can raise their issues under the common wealth and the CARICOM Directives and legislations such as Maurice Tomlinson did.

Again the GOB which is the largest employer in the country through its ministries such as labor and human development should enact policies aimed at educating its employees and hoe to deal with members of the trans communities.

ACCESS TO JUSTICE Every citizen or person living in Belize should be afforded non-discriminated access to Justice. It is a universal human right. Justice is not reserved for the court room only but justice begins at the health clinic, the class room, the work place, the sanctuary and at home. Justice delayed is justice denied. More sensitization clinics and workshop need to be conducted to assist employees in the private sector and public sector. The majority of the complaints recorded by TIA are against public employees.

SUMMARY It has taken the LGBTIQ/ TIA community in Belize a long time to achieve limited success in human rights. It will take a Hugh influx of financial resources and ingenuity to change the mindset of Belize’s elected officials. It is only through legislation and effective implementation that the TIA community in Belize will chart new territory.

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REFERENCES CITED Statutes: The Constitution of Belize, Chapter. 4, of the Laws of Belize 2011 The Criminal Code, Chapter. 101, of the Laws of Belize 2011 The Criminal Code, Chapter. 101, of the Laws of Belize 2011, as amended in 2017 The Education Act, Chapter. 36, of the Laws of Belize 2011 The Ministry of Education Handbook - 2012 The Public Health Act, Chapter. 40, of the Laws of Belize 2011 The Public Health Act, Chapter. 40, – Subsidiary. Laws of Belize 2011 The Labour Act, Chapter. 297, of the Laws of Belize 2011 The Belize Immigration Act – 10 of 2018 - nationality Act and Immigration Admiration (Ch. 156) Criminal Code, Chapter 101, – Act 6 of 2018 amended Public Suppression of criminal gangs Vital Statistics – Act 13 of 2018 amends improves the services for Registration The Belize Immigration Act, Chapter. 156, of the Laws of Belize 2011 Cases: Caleb Orosco v Government of Belize (2010) Oscar Selgado v Attorney General of Belize, et al. (2002) Maurice Tomlinson v The State of Belize (2014) CCJ2 (OJ) International Legislation: The UN Charter and UN Declaration of Human Rights 1948 The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) Free Movement of Skilled persons from the Caribbean – Belize Act 12 of 2016.

Websites: http://www.oas.org/en/iachr/decisions/cases.asp https://www.google.com.bz/criminal+law+england+ and+wales+discrimination&oq https://www.export.gov/article?id=Belize-Labor

Contact Details:

Ian Gray, MA, LL.B Email: ireg1416@aol.com

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