Visiting Belize: A Journey of Resilience, Transformation, and Community by: Aria Lightfoot


 The last few months of 2023 marked a significant chapter in my life, characterized by medical challenges and the scary process of cancer testing. This period of adversity prompted deep reflection on the fragile nature of life and the importance of seizing the present moment.   In the wake of adversity, time itself seemed to bend, pulling me into the sanctum of the present moment, where the simplest of pleasures—sights, sounds, tastes, and touches—assumed a profound significance. Amidst the chaos, I recognized the profound value of human connection and relationships. In December 2023, just five days before Christmas, I underwent a successful surgery, embarking on an 8-week healing journey where in January 2024, all my tests came back cancer-free.

During my ordeal, my thoughts often turned to Belize. My husband believes that I have no deeper love for any other place. I did not intend to live in the USA, however, I found myself gradually rooted in this adopted homeland, building meaningful connections, and engaging with its vibrant culture, economy, and politics.  Contrary to common misconceptions from the political pundits, America is a welcoming land of opportunities, and a sanctuary for many. There is an innate goodness in Americans that gets lost in noise of political rhetoric.

I feel that I have a lot to contribute to Belize’s development.  I find Belizeans, both home and abroad, to be extremely intelligent, resilient, and ingenious.  Despite facing challenges, many Belizeans thrive, their potential limited only by systemic barriers and political constraints.

On March 1, I flew to Belize excited about spending time there, hanging out with my family and checking out some property developments. I was committed to walking in Belmopan daily. On one of my daily walks, I met Nigel Petillo who rightfully challenged Belizeans about their commitment to Belize. He reminded us that the lack of development has a lot to do with those who never came back and applied their skillset; however, I have witnessed Belizeans giving back in many different and important ways.  As recently as last week, Belizeans in California organized a substantial donation of medical equipment valued in the millions of dollars to benefit the hospitals in Belize.

On election day, March 6, I was invited to be a guest on the Heat, a collaboration with Krem and Channel 7 to bring the election live. I found the experience a bit chaotic but exciting, much like we do many things in Belize.  As an observer of Belizean politics, I was struck by the transactional nature of elections and the concerning trend of voter manipulation. Many people are allowing the political parties to use them to manipulate the voting system by registering to win elections rather than improve their areas where they live.  Even the politicians admitted on national TV that a significant, swing voter population resides in Guatemala. There were credible reports of people being bused in from Guatemala to vote. Why are Belizeans accepting this but adamant to exclude the diaspora?    I do not see how this political model can be sustained simply because it is expensive!  The parties are expending a lot of money on voting instead of competing based on their records of completing projects and developing their communities.   There is still no campaign financing laws and so political parties are the perfect conduit for nefarious donors to launder dirty money.  Due to the evolution of transactional politics, the politicians are now pouring all their efforts in the areas that have bloc voters while strategically ignoring the areas with less voters. This is a bastardization of democracy.   Belmopan is a case in point. The neglect of maintenance is striking. You would think, as a national policy, and a place that hosts the political debates and administration, there would be some priority in maintenance and development of the city.  Additionally, the tattered flag at the entrance of Belmopan is unacceptable. I was told it would be addressed. I am not sure if it was.

On a high note, I had the pleasure of a guided tour by Jon Lohr from Ceiba Realty, who showcased the innovative developments he is spearheading. His wealth of knowledge is truly impressive and inspiring. We were provided with farming insights, given produce harvested from his flourishing farm, a testament to the richness of Belize’s fertile soil. During our tour, we also encountered a small, traditional Mennonite community, where we met a gentleman who embodied Belize’s unique cultural diversity. Though he is a Mennonite by religion and culture, his mixed heritage of Maya and German ancestry beautifully symbolized Belize’s harmonious blend of cultures peacefully coexisting.

Regrettably, the Government of Belize (GOB) fails to prioritize the implementation of development projects that could alleviate dependency within the system. Such initiatives have the potential to create generational change. Nigel and Jon both recount growing up poor in Belize. However, their definition of poverty is truly not poverty.  While they did not benefit from materialistic possessions brought about through consumerism, their ownership of land and proficiency in living off it empowered them to not only survive but thrive. Today, they are actively creating opportunities for fellow Belizeans to experience the same upward mobility.

During my time in Belize, I engaged in many enriching conversations with individuals from diverse backgrounds. The elder PUPs lamented the movement away from George Price philosophies while the UDPs grappled with persistent internal party issues;   Additionally, non-political individuals showed waning interest in engaging with the political system, indicating a growing disillusionment and discontent with politics, mirroring shifts in political ideologies and societal values.


An important constitutional review is currently underway in Belize, marking the second such endeavor in the nation’s history. This review aims to gauge the sentiments of Belizeans at home and abroad and shape the trajectory of the country’s future. Spearheading this initiative is Anthony Chanona and the People’s Constitutional Committee. My colleague Verlene and I had the privilege of meeting with key figures, including Anthony Chanona and Luke Martinez. Additionally, we encountered the dynamic and sometimes controversial advocate Louis Wade. Belize abounds with the potential to cultivate a prosperous and thriving nation.

Chanona serves as the chairman of the People’s Constitution Committee chosen for his dedicated efforts to foster systemic change and promote inclusive participation. Despite operating on a shoestring budget, even less than previous constitutional reviews, Chanona remains steadfast in his mission. Widely respected in Belmopan for his integrity-driven leadership, he is viewed as a transformative figure who upholds integrity above politics. During our meeting, Chanona offered insights into the committee’s advancements, facilitated by our involvement in soliciting input from the diaspora.


On two occasions, I accompanied my aunt to the Catholic Church in Belmopan. It appeared to be hanging on for dear life and struggling to retain its significance. On one occasion the police visited and while many were on time and attentive, a few were late and distracted by their phones. Interestingly, the highest-ranking officer was absent, however I did see him at a car sales showcase the day prior. On the second visit, the pews were only half-filled, and the atmosphere felt mundane and monotonous. In a quintessentially Belizean irony, I found it interesting to see a spirited Maya priest lead a small Catholic congregation with optimism and humor. During a poignant moment, he blessed a very young family with four children already, prompting me to have reflective thoughts about birth control and religion… Sigh. The churches are lingering reminders of colonialism adorned with the symbolism of a white Jesus, with the backdrop of the unresolved issues surrounding indigenous rights, yet it seems to escape the notice or care of those attending. Does these issues linger silently within our hearts and prayers?

Reflecting on my youth, attending church was non-negotiable. Father Laz’s electrifying sermons, lively choir, and the presence of Garifuna drummers once filled the church to capacity. However, this vibrancy has since faded, and now church appeals mainly to devout Belmopan residents adhering to traditional ways, but failing to attract the younger generation. I suspect evangelical churches may have successfully tapped into this demographic, although I didn’t have the chance to confirm it firsthand.

During my trip, there were many bright spots that caught my attention. Young entrepreneurs and businesses appeared to flourish, showcasing the dynamism of the local economy. I witnessed new developments, coupled with a noticeable decrease in the fear of crime (particularly in Belmopan), hinting that the economy may be doing well and standard of living resilient to inflationary pressures.

Interestingly, I observed several laundromats in Belmopan operating with prices and services unsustainable for the local market. Despite this, Belmopan residents oblivious to it all, maintained their laid-back lifestyle, actively engaging in exercise and community activities, contributing to the betterment of society. Remarkably, many seemed to defy aging, a testament to their vitality and well-being. One Belmopan person mused “ What is that smell – That smell is fresh air”


The highlight of my trip was an invitation to Dangriga to witness the inauguration of Citizens for Good Governance as an NGO. Back in 2020, Verlene Pitts and I initiated the Civic Fellowship Program to address the lack of civic awareness. Over nine months, with support from the business class, political and civic leaders, we successfully launched the program with a requirement for all participants to complete a civics project as part of the program. Kylah Ciego and Jamal Swaso, two of our fellows, teamed up and formulated the Citizens for Good Governance, now evolved into a NGO. Citizens for Good Governance, trained Dangriga candidates from both political parties heading into the 2024 municipal elections and organized and hosted debates.  They have elevated the political environment in their community, with a mission to build ethical leaders. This validated our mission and the importance of civics education.  We are partnering with the University of Belize to sustain this initiative.


On the Sunday before my departure, I headed to Boom to witness the La Ruta Maya race. There was a lot of excitement and fanfare.  The fire hearth rice and beans was delectable, and the entire area was adorned with a festive ambiance, music and drumming. It was evident that there is significant potential for economic gain from this three-day event. The enthusiasm among Belizeans for such races and competitions is palpable. I also met quite a few friends, Belizeans who were also visiting from Florida,  and many friends from social media.  It was community. 

Overall, it was great trip, it was cathartic and was good for my soul. I got to a rare occasion to hang out with my brother and my mother siblings, my aunt and uncle. I carry with me a sense of a renewed commitment to contribute to the country’s progress. Despite the challenges ahead, I am filled with optimism for Belize’s future and look forward to returning home.

Twocanview Inaugural Blog Radio Show 12/29/2013


Today Dec 29, 2013 marked the inaugural blog radio show for Twocanview.  My first guest was Hubert Pipersburg. Hubert explained pubic policy;  the importance of effective public policy;  and helped me examine the Christmas Cheer Program implemented in Belize- Was it good public policy?    Please click on the following link to listen to the discussion: Blog Radio 12/29/2013

 

Also please donate to a great initiative to uplift the lives of elderly Belizeans who are living in very deplorable conditions by clicking the following link. Improve the lives of Belizeans at Home

Donate what you can. A bank account will also be established in Belize.  The funds will be used to help build a decent living structure for the residents affected.

The pictures below are structures that senior citizens presently live in:

housing 4 housing 3 housing 2 housing 1

 

 

Daily Dingleberry 08-26-12 Does This Pass The Bullshit Test??????? Tell Me What You Think


Direct link to the following  http://edition.channel5belize.com/archives/74930

Aug 23, 2012

6 containers of suspected pseudoephedrine turn out to be chalk

FLORENCIO MARIN JR.

Earlier this year, a shipment of seven forty-foot containers housing a significant quantity of methylamine hydrochloride, a chemical precursor used in the manufacture of methamphetamine, was confiscated by the Customs Department.  The consignment, valued at an estimated ten billion dollars, was shipped from China to Belize in February to Belize Gardens Consortium, a local company owned by businessman Vernon Cuthkelvin.  Following the seizure, samples of the substance were sent to the United States for testing while the Anti-Drug Unit led an investigation into the matter.  In the interim Cuthkelvin sought representation from attorney Lionel Welch, who indicated that a charge of making a false declaration on a customs entry was the only legal action that could be taken against him.  But the charge never materialized and today Minister of National Security John Saldivar said that the chemicals, after being tested, turned out to be nothing more than chalk.  The investigation, he added, has since been closed.

 

Florencio Marin Jr., Area Representative, Corozal South East

“Can the Minister of National Security say what is the status of the police investigation into the seven forty foot containers that were shipped to Belize in February containing chemicals which form the base for the deadly drug commonly known as ‘crystal meth’ and whether or not anyone has been arrested or charged in this matter?”

 

JOHN SALDIVAR

John Saldivar, Minister of National Security

“Mr. Speaker, samples sent abroad to the United States for analysis have proven that the container for the Belize Evergreen Distributors and Supplies was found to be chalk, calcium carbonate.  The three containers that were declared as titanium dioxide for Belize Gardens Consortium was found to contain chalk, calcium carbonate which was found to the front of the container, while samples taken from the back of the container was found to be all methylamine hydrochloride which is a precursor for the production of methamphetamine.  The other three containers which were declared as ammonium sulphate were found to contain some ammonium sulphate from the samples taken from the front while the samples taken from further in the back of the containers were found to contain methylamine hydrochloride.  Mr. Speaker, calcium carbonate, ammonium sulphate, and methylamine hydrochloride are not prohibited substances under the current laws of Belize therefore there were no reasonable grounds to believe that the person or persons had committed or is committing any offence under the laws of Belize.  As a result, there were no arrests made and the police investigation into this matter is considered closed.”

 

The “chalk” was destroyed, reportedly with assistance from the US. 

 

 

 

PUP Speaks Against Recent Allegations Involving Baptist Pastor


The full text of what the PUP’s UWG said on August 21 – August 21, 2012
Press Release
The United Women’s Group (UWG) of the People’s United Party is appalled by the recent reports of sexual misconduct of adult men with minors, by persons in positions of trust and authority; and in particular by the matter involving the Principal and Pastor of the Belmopan Baptist School and Church who has confessed to being involved in an inappropriate relationship with a teenage female student and church member.
The UWG finds this report against this individual very disturbing. At a time when our young people are faced with lack of opportunities and positive role models, those in positions of authority entrusted as the guardians of the welfare of our children and youth, must not betray this trust for their own selfish gratification.
The UWG condemns in the strongest terms, any exploitation, sexual, physical, emotional or economic of Belizean youth. We deplor

e any conduct that preys on upon our women, youth and children.
The UWG calls on the Ministry of Education, the Belize Association of High School Principals, the Baptist Association of Belize and the Belize Council of Churches to act swiftly and decisively in dealing with this matter; and to immediately implement appropriate measures to ensure that such actions doo not re-occur within the school and church systems in Belize.
The UWG encourages all Belizeans to continue to advocate in the most vigorous manner for the protection of our children to keep them free from all forms of exploitation and abuse.=ENDS=

School’s IN! Pull Di Dallahs OUT!!!! by Fayemarie Anderson Carter


Adopt A Student!!!!!!

Last month Aria brought a wonderful project to our attention and so now as the new school year approaches, I want to reiterate. Did you realize that just about 50% of all Belizean children are NOT getting an education? Half of our boys and girls are being prepared for a very difficult future ahead of them. Lack of education makes our children extremely vulnerable to crime and victimization.

In response to this alarming reality, Restore Belize has launched a program “Adopt A Student”. Restore Belize is appealing specifically to Belizeans abroad to provide the funding for this endeavor. There are different levels of sponsorship starting at $250 US per student per year. There are about 15,000 students in need so we have got a ways to go BUT I know we can do it! You can sponsor individually OR you can get together with your friends and family to sponsor a child. Americans are always asking if there are programs like this in Belize when they find out where I am from and before, I really couldn’t give a good answer. Now I can and you can too.

Right now, it seems the schools that have been identified are high schools focused in the city. Hopefully, with our help, Restore Belize will be able to extend this project to include the districts as well as elementary schools. Join Aria and myself in literally changing the future of a child in need. We have decided to sponsor a girl at Sarteneja High School. Please read more by clicking on the link: https://twocanview.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/restorebelizeadoptastudent.pdf

Daily Dingleberry 08-07-2012 Well Well Well…What The Hell?


So, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control  is declaring that NO American can do business with five companies under the control of John Zabaneh and two of his associates, Dion Zabaneh (his nephew)  and Daniel Moreno. These companies include: Mayan King Ltd.; Mid-South Investments Ltd.; Crown Paradise Enterprises Ltd.; Belize Chemicals Ltd.; and D’s Supermarket Company Ltd. Why? Because the DEA finally after hmmmmm 30 years got their shit together enough to prove that John Zabaneh is a prominent drug trafficker in Central America, especially Belize, with ties to Colombian and Mexican drug cartels namely the Sinaloa Cartel. The Sinaloa Cartel has been declared by the US Intelligence Community as THE most powerful drug organization in the world, making an estimated $3 billion a year in revenue and partly responsible for the 50,000 drug related deaths in Mexico since 2006.

So what now????? What does that mean for Belize? Our government? Who’s next on the list?????

Read the full story here: http://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/tg1674.aspx

For more on the Sinaloa Cartel, read: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/17/magazine/how-a-mexican-drug-cartel-makes-its-billions.html?pagewanted=all

Daily Dingleberry 08-03-12 Define Normal Please!!!!!!!!!!


Dis-Honourable. Gaspar Vega

Taken from the transcript of 7 News Belize 08-02-12

Jules Vasquez
“Would you accept the characterization that – this is what the PUP said; normal people have to wait in line, have to jump through hoops for years to get a piece of land.”

Hon. Gaspar Vega
“Jules I am not a normal person in Belize. I work much harder than a lot of other people.”

 

So uhm what exactly does this mean? That you think you’re above the law now because you are a Minister? Look pendejo! You’re right. You are NOT normal. You are put in a place of authority and responsibility. That means Mr. Vega, that unlike everybody else, YOU CAN’T THIEF! You, of all people, are expected to be a model citizen, one who knows, understands AND upholds the law.

Your lone attitude and casual words show  how corrupt and therefore undeserving you are of your position. I call for your resignation, effective immediately and that you  are dealt with swiftly in every accordance of the laws of our country.

So, Mr. Dean Barrow, what you gonna do with this thieving son of a bitch?

 

For full transcript of interview, click here: http://www.7newsbelize.com/sstory.php?nid=23103

UPDATE on Rebecca Stirm! 06-20-12


Our congratulations go out to Ms. Stirm who has done us proud representing Belize at the Mission Catwalk fashion design competition. She ultimately did not win BUT we know that this is just the glorious beginning of a looooong career for this young lady. She is proof that you can do anything when you put your mind to it, with limited resources and yes, at a very young age. She had a vision and she pursued it. Take notice Belizeans! It IS possible!

CONGRATULATIONS GREGORY WILLIAMS!

Daily Dingleberry 06-16-12 Belize Is Definitely Worth Fighting For


Unlock Your Mind

It is a sad truth, that just like an insecure beautiful woman knows not her worth, so are Belizeans when it comes to Belize. She bats her eyelashes, beckoning her man, wishing only to serve. She is hopeful HE is the one, the one who will worship her and take care of her, make her feel special.  Little does she know that the man she lets climb atop her is undeserving and has no intentions of appreciating her delicate beauty. He is only with her to exploit, take his fill, casting her aside broken and used, unloved, uncherished. Desperate, she lets another one in and so on and so on until she has nothing left to attract them. She is but a shriveled shadow of herself, eyes blankly staring out. All because she didn’t know how special she was. Sounds  much like what we Belizeans do, advertising our Jewel to tourists and investors, hoping they will be the ones to alleviate our poverty and social ills. Are we going to let that happen to us, Belize? Are we going to throw up our hands and hang our heads in shame, waiting and waiting for “the one” to come rescue us?

Why do we do that? Why do we tell ourselves we don’t know what to do? Why do we give up control to others? *sigh*

We didn’t get ourselves here. We really didn’t. We were a colony that was ignored and treated like crap for over 300 years. They sent politicians and Lords who “behaved badly” to Belize as a punishment- remember, the asshole of the world? No one invested in us…they took everything and then left us to rot in filth and squalor, basic needs unmet and unaddressed. We were treated as unimportant, ignorant and less than human. After all, we are uncivilized animals who steal, cheat and wreak havoc on all that is sacred and holy. HEATHENS! We have sex like monkeys and all our babies have different fathers. Our men are drunken blackguards,  thievin’ n’er do wells and our women are loose sex pots to be had for a pint of beer, wooden coins, empty promises of a new life in England.

Fast forward to 2012. We are independent for just 30 years, trying to keep up with the rest of the world and in some ways doing remarkably and in other ways, failing miserably. Let’s look at why. What is the one thing that hasn’t changed? Unfortunately, our mentality. We still behave like the colonized, waiting for massa to do it for us. There is no “Massa“. We is MASSA! SO THEN WHY ARE WE STILL LIVING ACCORDING TO ARCHAIC BRITISH LAWS?????EVEN THE BRITISH DONT USE THOSE FRIGGIN’ LAWS CAUSE THEY DON’T WORK!!!!

And so here we come back to Jasmine Lowe. Her case is a magnifying glass on all that doesn’t work. And why did this happen? Why were there no change in the laws that might have allowed for a better investigation, prosecution and justice for this little girl? Because we don’t understand that we are worth it. We, Belizeans, are worth demanding better laws. We, Belizeans, are worth demanding better protection. We, Belizeans, are worth demanding a sound justice system. This is more than gangs and guns. This cuts to the core of what we stand for, what we represent. Our laws are who we are. Our laws tell the world what is important to us. The problem is we don’t even know that we are important so how could we know what is important to us?

My partner Aria Lightfoot just wrote an article further commenting on all this…take a look and then start reflecting…do you know you are worth it? Do you know you are worth fighting for? Only until we get that, can we be ready to build Belize and be the change we wish to see.

https://twocanview.com/2012/06/16/belize-is-worth-fighting-for-by-aria-lightfoot/