Children rally against abuse

Studies indicate that Belizean children do not feel all that secure in the one place they should: their homes. Today, as a week to fight child abuse opened, News 5’s Jacqueline Woods found out how the subject of abuse will be tackled.

Jacqueline Woods, Reporting

This week, Belizean parents are being encouraged to show their children that they are loved. According to the experts, abuse is widespread in Belize and on the increase.

Lavern Castillo, Coordinator, NOPCA

“We have found that neglect is the main type of abuse that’s crippling our society right now, followed by sexual abuse and physical abuse. And emotional abuse accompanies each of these abuse. It’s very, very rampant, especially in our society.”

Today, Belize City primary school children paraded against all forms of abuse. The march kicked off a series of activities that will be held to observe Prevention of Child Abuse Week. The National Organization for the Prevention of Child Abuse, NOPCA, hopes the event will bring national attention to this disturbing problem.

Lavern Castillo

“Just to let children know that there are people out here who care for them. The theme for the week is Abuse–No Excuse and I think it is self explanatory. There is no excuse for whatever type of abuse.”

Jacqueline Woods

“Has NOPCA done any study to try to find out exactly why there is so much abuse going on?”

Lavern Castillo

“We have a study that’s in progress, it’s not completed by Case Western University. We’re hoping to do that before the ending of this year, to complete the study and release the findings.”

The parade ended at the Memorial Park, where the children received refreshments before heading back to class. Jacqueline Woods for News 5.

This week, activities continue with the launching of a focus group study on Fatherhood in Belize, remembrance for victims of child murders and a Family Fun Day.