Human Rights Day

Good Evening Everyone:

I am honoured to have the privilege of extending our most cordial greetings to the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. Roberto Valent, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, to our Lord the Honourable Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin, and to every distinguished guest and member present at this most noble gathering in celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the Office of the High Commission of Human Rights as well as Human Rights Day.

Since Belize was admitted to the United Nations on the 25th September 1981, I think we can all agree that for a small, young country, we have come a long way in our attempts to ensure the availability and protection of basic rights and freedoms pursuant to our international obligations. However, I think we can also agree that we still have a lot to accomplish and that in order for us to make a significant leap of progress; we must finally come together as a family and make the relevant compromises and accessions toward our greater good – toward international fair and equitable standards. Our approach to a better Belize must be a most humane and responsible one, considering every sector of our society. We must realize that the decisions we make at this stage can either make or break us. It is in this light – in this spirit that I welcome you all, with a vision of hope and a dream of the best Belize we all can conceive and finally realize.

I believe that in all our contemplations – in all our decisions, love is the final key. We have heard that we must “love our neighbours.” We have read that we must “pray for those who persecute us.” We must steer our hearts and interest toward the elevation and protection of the poor. We must bring the light of wisdom and justice to the uneducated and underprivileged. I am confident that we are capable of accomplishing all that we hope. We are the key to making Belize that haven of Democracy – that Paradise where love is evidently everywhere.

I encourage you all; let us make the 20 years of sacrifice worth it. Let us make Belize a Paradise in the making.

Thank you for coming and for listening. May God’s greatest blessings descend on the entire audience, and guide your hearts to accomplishing great things.