Anglican mothers try to combat child abuse

It has slipped below the local news radar in the last couple of weeks, but alleged incidents of child rape in Punta Gorda remains very much a part of the social conscience of the nation. One group that has decided to take the matter outside of their circle is the Mother’s Union of the Anglican Diocese. President of the Union Louie Coleman says tonight’s public forum will not be just another talk shop, and that the recommendations arising from the discussion will be taken back to the executive for further action.

Louie Coleman, President, Anglican Diocese Mother’s Union

“With the happenings in Punta Gorda with those children, this is what really motivated us. We were very concerned about it. As a matter of fact, when branches had their meetings this is a topic that came up and really raised interest to everyone, so we decided at our executive meeting that we should do something. And this is the theme that we came up with and that we should have a forum.”

Patrick Jones

“Why do you think it’s important for us to take children seriously?”

Louie Coleman

“It is very important. Children are the future and there are some parents who do not take children seriously. We must take children seriously.”<

The panellist will include Family Court Magistrate Margaret Nicholas, Judith Alpuche of N.C.F.C., and community worker Brenda Johnson. The “Taking Children Seriously” forum will be held at the St. Mary’s Hall and starts at seven o’clock. Coleman says that although it’s a mother’s union sponsored event, fathers are especially welcome to attend. The Mother’s Union of the Anglican Diocese has three branches and over seventy members in Belize City. There are plans to form other groups in the other districts.