Cultural Consciousness at the Belize National Library Service

Leroy Green

There is new leadership at the Belize National Library Service and Information System under the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, and Technology and with that come changes. Chairman Leroy Green is bringing cultural consciousness to libraries across the country and on Monday at the Leo Bradley Library in Belize City, the Creole culture took center stage where dance, music, and food, as well as poetry, were showcased. News Five spoke with Green about the initiative.

Leroy Green, Chairman, Belize National Library Service & Information Systems

“The minister had a meeting with us and he said his vision for libraries across the country is to turn the libraries into more attractive spaces by having regular cultural events which would attract young people, older people, artists and people on a whole. And what he did, he asked that we could make these things celebrate the cultures of Belize. So what you see happening here this morning is not only a celebration of the fortieth anniversary of independence, but a celebration of Belizean culture, of Belize. This morning, we are featuring aspects of the Creole culture, but as time goes on, we are going to feature as many of the cultures of Belize as possible. So what you are going to see here this morning will be  teaching of the steps of Belizean brukdong; teaching of how to make Belizean Johnny cake; also some poems, some Belizean poems, and of course you hear Brad Pattico performing in the background. So it is really a celebration of the people of Belize.”

While it is the first event, culture consciousness will feature other cultures in the various municipalities.