Seniors parade their patriotism

There was a parade today in Belize City–not terribly unusual during the patriotic season–but this morning’s revellers brought experience as well as enthusiasm to the streets of the old capital.

Jacqueline Woods, Reporting

This time it was not a bunch of excited school children parading the streets, but men and women old enough to be their great grandparents. Yes, the temperature may have been boiling outside, but these senior citizens still manage to enjoy their walk around the block.

The parade, organised by the Mercy Day Care Centre, was held to commemorate Belize’s twenty-second anniversary of Independence.

Alicia Martin, Manager, Mercy Kitchen

“It brings them to the full awareness of what is happening. Every celebration of the year we keep it to them so they keep very much aware, in tune with the community, with the public, what is happening. So they look forward to our celebration as to whatever the occasion may be.”

Jacqueline Woods

“Evelyn was this too much for you, parading around the block?”

Evelyn Wagner, 81 years old

“No, No man. I use to like. I have pain, but I still yet try because the band that is playing, that dah weh my son mi get.”

Jacqueline Woods

“So as you hear the music, that gives you energy?”

Evelyn Wagner

“It gives me energy how you know, how you know, true.”

Jacqueline Woods

“You’re eighty-one, but you still going strong?”

Evelyn Wagner

“Still going strong. Praise the Lord, praise the Lord.”

The men and women say the country has developed tremendously since they were children, but are very much concerned about the present day epidemic of crime. Sixty-eight year old Martha Norales says gone are the days when you could take an evening walk without fear.

Martha Norales, 68 years old

“It’s very frightening. I just know why the youths of today are committing more crimes. I feel it is due to weh they are far from the Almighty God. And the way how I take it, no politician will change Belize; only if we turn to the good Lord, only God could change Belize.”

The Mercy Day Care Centre says the day would not have been possible without the kind support of the community including the S.J.C. and Wesley bands and the Majorettes. Jacqueline Woods for News 5.

Following the parade, the senior citizens enjoyed a cookout that included hot dogs and gifts.