Belize’s Special Envoy for Women and Children and UNICEF hosted a two-day conference under the theme “Breaking Barriers for an Inclusive Society and Empowerment for Children with Disabilities” on October 13, 2016 and October 14, 2016 at Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina, Belize City.
In total, 36% of children aged 2 to 9 are at risk of having one or more disabilities whether physical, auditory, visual or learning. Children with disabilities are one of the most marginalized and excluded groups in society.
Facing daily discrimination in the form of negative attitudes, lack of adequate policies and legislation, they are effectively barred from realizing their rights to healthcare, education, and even survival. Their disabilities also place them at a higher risk of physical abuse, and often exclude them from receiving proper nutrition or humanitarian assistance in emergencies.
This conference aimed to highlight the accomplishments and best practices on children with disabilities within Latin America and the Caribbean; identifying gaps regarding access to services; developing a regional awareness campaign to educate on the impact of positive language for an inclusive society; advocating for improved access to quality services in schools, government offices and businesses; and securing commitment for inclusive development on the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) agenda and within the rest of the region.
Developed by Belize’s Special Envoy for Women and Children in partnership with UNICEF Belize, this video highlights the importance of using language that respects people for who they are. Words are powerful. Words can hurt. Words do matter. #PersonFirst #TeachRespect
