National Culture Policy 2014

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NATIONALCULTUREPOLICY

Our Cultures, Our Values, Our Identity, Our Prosperity

2014

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TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGEI Executive Summary 61.0 The Vision 8 2.0 Context of Belize’s National Culture Policy 93.0 Core Values 114.0 The Process 125.0 Definition of Culture in the context of Belize 146.0 Bill of Cultural Rights 157.0 Cultural Policy Objectives 168.0 Policy Framework 189.0 Belize Culture Model 1910.0 Cultural Policy Governance and Implementation 2011.0 Cultural Heritage Tangible and Intangible: 22 Safeguarding, Preservation and Promotion12.0 Cultural and Creative Industries: 33

Development and Promotion13.0 Culture in Education and Environment 3514.0 Culture in National Development, Tourism, and Poverty 37 Eradication 15.0 Culture, Youth and Technology 4016.0 Domestic, Regional and International Cultural Relations 4317.0 Finance and Administration of Culture 4618.0 Concluding Remarks 49

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Executive SummaryThe National Culture Policy provides the policy framework for the: safeguarding of Belize’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage, promotion of cultural expression and creativity; development of the cultural and creative industries and for the wise management of Belize’s cultural resources.

During the course of two years of consultations, cultural activists, stakeholders and community participants repeatedly identified a vision for Belize’s development that was based on the collective values of respect, tolerance, hard work, democracy and social justice. It was suggested that these core values should be reanimated to ensure the success of future generations of Belizeans. For this reason, this policy framework is a values-based document in which the participants identified the need to build social cohesion among Belize’s diverse populations, and to do so by proposing a model that allows all of Belize’s cultural groups the theoretical and practical space for cultural expression and creativity.

In order to fulfill this vision, the document proposes a democratic and decentralized model for culture in Belize. It is referred to as the Belize Culture Model. It assumes that culture and cultural practices exists in all persons, communities, groups and institutions in Belize with each having a role to play. The Belize Culture Model calls upon all stakeholders to fulfill their function within the mores, laws and customs of a multi-cultural and democratic society. It asks that all cultural actors consider the freedoms which are guaranteed within the constitution of Belize, and to allow the fulfillment of those rights, so that persons may properly assert their Belizean cultural identity and exercise creativity for personal growth and national development.

The first eight chapters outline the history and process involved in developing the National Culture Policy. Chapter 9 describes the Belize-Culture Model as the basis for cultural action. Chapter 10 outlines how this document and its policies is to be implemented and covers a period of 10 years divided into 5 year blocks with keen interest to be given to the cycle of implementation, evaluation and redrafting of this document. Chapters 11- 16 describe the culture sector and propose a series of policies for the subsequent development of strategic actions. Finally, Chapter 17 proposes policies to ensure the efficient and sustainable management and finance of Belize’s Culture agenda.

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The policies outlined herein are designed to provide a guide to all cultural actors. These policies are to be given consideration by all persons, cultural activists, cultural councils, and government entities who acknowledge the link between culture and development. The policies should help to guide the implementation of strategic actions in alignment with our vision for safeguarding of our tangible and intangible heritage, promotion of cultural expression and creativity, for the development of Belize’s cultural and creative industries and for the wise management of Belize’s cultural resources.

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1.0 The vision

Our Cultures, Our Values, Our Identity, Our Prosperity

The National Culture Policy has been developed with the understanding that Belize is a multi-cultural society and that all its cultures must be recognized. Throughout Belize’s history, our social, economic, and political development has come from the efforts of all our people, and those efforts have been driven by our core values and beliefs. The vision expressed in the National Culture Policy, therefore, is that our cultures forge our identity, and that our shared values have made Belizeans a peaceful, strong, creative and resilient people. The strength, resiliency and creativity that have made us who we are must now be reanimated to ensure our future success. Hence, this National Culture Policy emphasises one central vision: Our Cultures, Our Values, Our Identity, Our Prosperity.

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2.0 Context of Belize’s National Culture PolicyThe Government of Belize intends to create an atmosphere that is conducive to and supportive of the development and wise management of Belize’s cultural heritage. The Government of Belize’s policy document Horizon 2030 establishes a vision for the long-term development of a collective national identity as a

multi-ethnic and multicultural society. For this reason, the Government undertook to develop a National Culture Policy (NCP) as a framework for understanding Belizean culture.

This Policy also will provide guidance for the preservation and promotion of Belize’s cultural heritage and for the balanced, efficient and equitable access to and distribution of resources for culture and for the continued creation and development of a Cultural Heritage Industry.

The National Culture Policy recognizes that

i) Belize is a young nation with a diverse people uneasily struggling to create a national identity.

ii) ThedemographicprofileofBelize istheresultofpatternsofvoluntaryand involuntary migration.

iii)The cultural characteristics ofBelize’s peoplehavemany tangibleandintangiblemanifestations.

iv) The resulting culturaland creative expressionsneed tobenurtured toensurefullparticipationbyallandtostrengthendemocraticvaluesinour society.

The Government believes that while the National Culture Policy will not provide all the answers to the questions regarding nation-building, it will, however, provide the basic framework for identity-building and cultural exchanges so that Belizeans may enjoy a comprehensively improved quality of life.

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The implementation of the National Cultural Policy will inevitably bring people throughout the world to recognize and appreciate Belize’s way of life. In short, then, culture is central to identity, awareness of one’s identity leads to creativity, and such creativity is essential for democracy.

Culture as identity, identity as creativity, creativity as democracy

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3.0 Core ValuesThe National Culture Policy addresses the challenge of building cultural consciousness and National identity and of facilitating national development by utilizing our cultural heritage.

The Policy does so primarily by providing

guidance to promote the integration of culture into national development. Therefore, the consultation process that resulted in the National Cultural Policy has prompted the Government to recognize that the collective values, ethics and morals of the country must receive primary consideration and that the process of nation-building must produce a better way of life for all Belizeans.

The values that feature prominently in the Policy document and which should be given emphasis in the process of national development include respect, responsibility, hard work, family, community, creativity, tolerance, religion, civic pride, justice, courtesy, empathy, democracy, unity, peace, freedom and social justice. It is imperative that we focus on strengthening these values.

Consequently, the Policy requires that nation-building must include advocacy for culture; advocacy for youth, disabled, aged and elderly; capacity building among our people; research and documentation of our culture and history; promotion of national heroes and national symbols; collaboration among stakeholders; mobilization of resources for culture; development of youth; introduction of new technology; legislation for the systematic and balanced growth of art and culture; development of linkages for local, regional and international expressions of art and culture; and Diaspora involvement in the overall development of the nation.

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4.0 The Process

In early 1989, Inez Sanchez’s “Thoughts towards the formulation ofa National Cultural Policy” called for an integrated plan of cultural action and initiated the written discussion of a need for a National Culture Policy in Belize. This

was followed in the early 1990s by a UNESCO-supported national workshop and consultations. In September 1992, findings of these consultations were published by the Belize National Arts Council in a document entitled What the People Said.

Over ten years later, the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) was established, replacing the National Arts Council. Today, NICH is the country’s primary engine of cultural expression and development. Since it is more than twenty years ago that the last major national consultations on culture took place, the Government of Belize, through the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and NICH, undertook to revisit the views of Belize’s cultural stakeholders to develop a National Culture Policy that will facilitate and fortify Belize’s future social and economic development.

The consultation process was designed to get feedback from a cross-section of the population and was conducted in three general phases. The first phase was district-level consultations and involved invitations to known cultural activists and community cultural organizations, as well as invitations to the general public via radio and television and social media outlets.

These consultation sessions were chaired by NICH personnel and included representatives of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture. The second phase involved consultations with cultural organizations that have a national cultural agenda (for example, the National Kriol Council, National Garifuna

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Council, Music Industry Association of Belize and other NGO’s). The third phase involved the use of a web-based and paper copy survey instrument to solicit feedback on cultural issues from members of the public as well as anyone with interest in development of the culture policy. The Institute for Social and Cultural Research (ISCR) also conducted assessments of cultural workshops, fiestas, concerts and other events which involved cultural stakeholders and participants. This data gathering phase was done over the course of one year in order to examine a full national cultural cycle.

The process of developing this Policy is consultative, participatory and inclusive. The Government recognizes and appreciates the efforts of all Government Ministries, Local Authorities, and civil society organisations, the private sector and Non-Governmental Organizations and all those individuals who participated in developing this national culture policy.

This final document was preceded by the presentation and vetting of a Draft Policy, which was released on August 28, 2013 to coincide with the 10 year anniversary celebration of the National Institute of Culture and History. Further feedback on the draft policy was solicited from NGO’s, the general public, professional organizations, scholars and persons interested in cultural development. Feedback and suggestions were provided by specialized readers and by the personnel of Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation. The critiques and suggestions have been incorporated into this final policy document.

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5.0 Definition of Culture in the context of Belize

The formal definition of culture used here is adopted from UNESCO

Culture comprises thewhole complexofdistinctive spiritual, material, intellectual andemotionalfeaturesthatcharacterizea society or social group. It includes not only theartsand letters,butalsomodesof life, the fundamental rights of human

beings,valuesystems,traditionsandbeliefs.

(UNESCO World Conference on Cultural Policies, 1982)

In the context of Belize, culture is the sum total of the ways in which a society preserves, identifies, organises, sustains and expresses itself. Belize is endowed with a rich and diverse cultural heritage including indigenous peoples, peoples who are descendants of an exploitative colonial system, and immigrants seeking a better way of life. The Government of Belize acknowledges that culture is intrinsically valuable and an important dimension of identity and a form of cultural capital with the potential to move people out of income poverty. Moreover, Belize’s development goals cannot be realized until we are able to collectively appreciate the significance and value of our cultural heritage.

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6.0 Bill of Cultural Rights The Government of Belize wishes to create an enabling environment for cultural promotion and social transformation of communities in order to strengthen national identity and nurture social cohesion. As a result, the Government of Belize will ensure that culture and the arts form an integral part of the

Horizon 2030 Plan, Tourism Master Plan, and NICH Strategic Plan, and will adhere to International Conventions related to culture in the best interests of Belize’s people. And in adherence to the Constitution of Belize, the Policy provides a Bill of Cultural Rights. This bill of rights re-emphasizes those rights and privileges that are already enshrined in the Belize Constitution and are viewed as critical to developing cultural awareness and confidence. In addition, a policy framework for the implementation of the National Culture Policy is also provided. We therefore call upon all stakeholders to respect these rights and to operate within this framework to ensure the development of culture for national development and social cohesion. The Bill of Cultural Rights follows:

6.1 A right to cultural expression and exchange6.2 A right to representation and participation in decision-making6.3 Arighttosocialandeconomicbenefitsderivedfromculture6.4 Arighttoholisticformalandinformaleducationincluding

Arts and Culture6.5 ArighttoRespect,Integrity,Tolerance,andExcellencefor

culture and the arts6.6 A Right to use, preserve and promote language6.7 A Right to promote culture and arts nationally and

internationally6.8 A Right to Community and Place6.9 ARighttoRedressofculturalgrievancesandconflicts

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7.0 Cultural Policy Objectives

7.1 To nurture and forge the development of a Belizean National Identity.

7.2 To foster awareness, appreciation and respect for cultural diversity of Belize.

7.3 To promote intercultural understanding. 7.4 To promote the diverse cultural heritage of

Belize. 7.5 To promote an appreciation of and respect

for the aesthetic and functional values of our surroundings including our history, national heroes and national symbols.

7.6 To preserve, conserve and transmit our cultural heritage.

7.7 To develop national pride, strengthen self-confidence, increase citizen engagement and foster a collective spirit among Belizeans.

7.8 To identify, stimulate and develop the creative potential of Belizeans.

7.9 To promote awareness of and respect for Intellectual Property rights.

7.10 To recognize and encourage the contributions of the Belizean Diaspora and make provisions for their full participation in cultural expression and cultural development.

7.11 To create and encourage appropriate institutions to foster cultural development, including NICH, the National Cultural Foundation, the Carnival Development Organization, the Music Industry Association, the Belize Audiovisual Industry Association, the Belize Book Industry Association and many others.

7.12 To instil an appreciation for and understanding of the cultures of the Caribbean, Latin America and the world .

7.13 To ensure the full participation of cultural and artistic stakeholders, to promote communication, to promote training of cultural practitioners, and to encourage institutional coordination, and to establish links between the culture policy and other national policies.

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7.14 To foster the development of human capacity for specialization and leadership in fields associated with cultural development.

7.15 To outline strategies for cultural infrastructure, including cultural centres and other community-level spaces for cultural and artistic expression, such as museums, Houses of Culture, Creative Art Centres, and an Archaeology Institute and a Conservation Centre.

7.16 To promote culture industries and entrepreneurship, particularly among the youth and women.

7.17 To ensure that culture polices and those policies related to industrial development, environmental protection and tourism product enhancement are linked and integrated.

7.18 To identify significant sources of funding for cultural promotion and development.

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8.0 Policy FrameworkNo definition of cultural activity can be entirely adequate; however, the following components are certainly critical in shaping a direction and framing an action plan for culture in the development of Belize. Our perception of culture must shift to a developmental model with culture as a critical component. Based on the objectives and strategies of Horizon 2030, the National Tourism Master Plan, cultural policy consultations and regional culture policy documents, this National Culture Policy Document establishes the following policy framework.

Thepolicyframeworkispresentedunderthefollowingheadings:

• Belize-CultureModel (9.0)• CulturalPolicyGovernanceandImplementation(10.0)• CulturalHeritage:TangibleandIntangible:PreservationandPromotion

(11.0)• CulturalAndCreativeIndustries:DevelopmentandPromotion(12.0)• CultureinEducationandEnvironment (13.0)• Culture in Tourism, Poverty Eradication and National Development

(14.0)• Culture,YouthandTechnology(15.0)• Domestic,RegionalandInternationalCulturalRelations(16.0)• FinanceandAdministrationofCulture(17.0)• ConcludingRemarks(18.0)

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9.0 Belize Culture Model

The Belize Culture Model assumes that culture emanates from all demographic sectors of society representing the cultural interests in Belize. For this reason, it is the view of the Government that the safeguarding, preservation and promotion of Belize’s tangible and intangible culture, along with the development of Cultural Creative Industries for the purpose of national unity, social cohesion and economic gain, can only come from the collective participation of cultural groups, councils, organizations, individuals and government entities.

TheGovernmentofBelize,throughitspublicsectoragenciescommitsitselfto

9.1Establishandmaintaincommunicationprocessestoexchangeinformationand process evaluations.

9.2Develop,amendandimplementstrategicobjectivesandactivitieswhichhelptosafeguard,preserve,promoteanddevelopculturalindustries.

9.3Ensurepartnershipwithnon-governmentalandprivateentitiesforthedevelopmentofculturalindustries.

9.4 Promote democracy so that Belizean society may achieve a National Identity.

ArtisansMusiciansResearchers and TeachersHealerAnd other knowledgeBearers

NICHCultural CouncilsGovernment MinisteriesMuseums/GalleriesAnd other institutuons

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10.0 Cultural Policy Governance and Implementation This National Cultural Policy requires close collaboration between the National Institute of Culture and History and its social, economic and public-sector partners. The National Institute of Culture and History is a statutory body within the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation. Section 17 of this document outlines the administration of the National Culture agenda. NICH as the premier institution for cultural affairs will have responsibility for the subsequent and continuous implementation of the policy. The implementation and evaluation of the policy should follow these steps:

Step 1: Establish a Unit for the socialization, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the stated policies. The Unit would also have the responsibility to collect and report on data from each Government Ministry implementing the policies, as well as from relevant social and economic partners.

Step 2: Education campaign regarding the terms set forth within the National Cultural Policy.

Step 3: Workshops with Government Ministries, departments and agencies in order to identify strategic actions and activities that are aligned with the policy positions outlined in the National Cultural Policy.

Step 4: Workshops with cultural organizations in order to identify strategic actions and activities that are aligned with the policy positions outlined in the National Cultural Policy. Workshops are also to be used to develop new policy positions.

Step 5: Table for consideration and inclusion in the National Budget Process any strategic actions and activities resulting from Step 2.

Step 6: Table and present to the National Institute of Culture and History any strategic actions and activities resulting from Step 3, for consideration and inclusion in the Institute’s five-year strategic planning and year-to-year work plans and budgets.

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Step 7: Compile National Reports and submit them to Government for implementation in five-year increments.

Step 8: Conduct National consultations for the revision of the National Cultural Policy in year 3 of the second five-year evaluation and reporting period.

First five year period

Year 1 (2015-2016) to Year 5 (2020-2021) – Budgeting, Implementation, Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting

Second five year period

Year 1 (2021 – 2022) to Year 3 (2023-2024) Budgeting, Implementation, Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting

Year 4 (2024 – 2025) – National Consultations for Revision of Cultural Policy

Year 5 (2025- 2026) – Production of Cultural Policy and final submission of National Report to Government.

Commence the next 10 year cycle - 2026-2036

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11.0 Cultural Heritage Tangible and Intangible: Safeguarding,Preservation and Promotion

Belize is a pluralistic, multi-cultural society whose ethnicities have a desire to share their unique qualities and characteristics in an all-encompassing national identity. Thus, cultural heritage is our collective memory, going back many generations, which preserves our varied reflections on life and responses to circumstances. And just as individuals cannot understand themselves or make authentic choices without their own personal memories, neither can our nation hope for social harmony and true achievement without our collective memory. Our collective memory, embedded and expressed in many forms, shows us both the positive and negative aspects of ourselves that we must know in order to build our nation effectively.

Intangible Heritage

Belize’s culture is in part preserved in its tangible heritage, including archaeological and historic sites and artefacts. However, a complementary and equally important feature of Belizean culture is its intangible cultural heritage. In 2008 Belize ratified the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in recognition of the need to develop policies and implement policies which ensure the continued transmission of Belize’s intangible cultural forms. Intangible Cultural Heritage, as defined by the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, means the practices, representations, knowledge and skills--as well as the instruments, objects and artefacts and cultural spaces associated therewith--that communities, groups,

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and in some cases individuals recognize as part of their cultural heritage. Based on public consultations the following categories have been identified for policy development with respect to Belize’s intangible cultural heritage.

Ethnicity Language and Oral Traditions Traditional Skills and Handicraft Music Health and Alternative (Traditional) Medicine Family and Religion National Days, National Heroes and National Symbols Research, Cultural documentation, Archiving and Safeguarding

Government is, therefore, committed to actions aimed at safeguarding, preserving, analyzing and disseminating knowledge of the traditional, historical and natural aspects of our intangible heritage.

11.1 Ethnicity – Belize’s population comprises various ethnic groups, including the Maya, Garifuna, Mestizo, Creole, East Indians, Mennonite, Chinese, other Asians, and Middle Easterners. Each ethnic group has its own history, language, music, dress, religious traditions and ancestry. However, patterns of settlement and resettlement and intermingling have often led different ethnic groups to adopt cultural forms characteristic of other groups.

ForthisreasontheGovernmentofBelizecommitsitselfthroughitsresponsibleagenciesandinconjunctionwithstakeholderswhohaveaparticularinterestto

11.1.1Makeprovisionstoensurethefullandequitableparticipationofallour ethnic communities in cultural expression and national development.

11.1.2 Pursueprojects to collect knowledgeof thehistory of ourpeoplesandtoensurethatouruniversitiesandorganizationsofhigherlearningareengagedintheresearch,writingandaudiovisualdocumentationofBelizeanhistory and heritage

11.2 Language and Oral Traditions – Language is the principal medium of transmitting cultural knowledge over the generations, in particular

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through oral traditions including music, storytelling and drama. Language is the medium for the survival of cultural, historical and ecological knowledge and practices. The status granted to the Garifuna Language, Music and Dance in 2008 as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO is an example.


11.2.1Identify,researchanddigitallyrecordlanguagepatternswithinBelizeandtoexaminemodelswhichallowfortheuse,retrievalandpreservationofBelize’slanguages.

11.2.2 Implementmodelstoensurethetransmissionofcultural,historicaland ecological knowledge.

11.2.3Facilitateactivities in cultural spaces toencourage transmissionofculturalknowledgeatboththecommunityandnationallevels.

11.2.4Utilize advances in information technology to make knowledgeavailableandtomaintainandrevitalizeourendangeredlanguages.

11.2.5Ensure that educational policies promote the use of minoritylanguagesasmediumsforinstruction.

11.3 Music – Belizean Music is a combination of indigenous and recently evolved genres influenced historically by regional and local events. These combinations allow Belizeans to continue to express our Belizean identity creatively, to forge social cohesion and then to introduce our Belizean identity into international contexts. Furthermore, music is a viable culture industry which provides not only entertainment, but opportunities for employment and wealth creation as well.


11.3.1Enhance the standards and quality of music in Belize throughinstruction,capacitybuildingandinnovation.

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11.3.2Continue to support and facilitate the development of public andprivate institutional structures and cultural groups and organizations involvedintheproductionandpreservationoftraditionalandcontemporaryBelizean music.

11.3.3Ensurethepreservationofintellectualpropertyrightsforartistsbyenablinglegislationandenforcementofsuchrights.

11.3.4EstablishaMusicDevelopmentFund(MDF)toallowforassistancetoartiststocreateandpresentdynamicnewmusictothepublic.

11.3.5Enactlegislationaimedatremovingtariffs,customdutiesandothertaxbarriersandprovideconcessionsandincentivesforartistsandculturalpractitionerstoobtaintoolsoftrade,especiallyinrelationtonewtechnologiesinanefforttopromoteandenhancetheglobalcompetitiveadvantageofourmusic and other cultural products.

11.4 Traditional Skills and Handicraft – A number of traditional skills are currently practiced in Belize, including music-making, weaving, woodworking, dorey-building, wire-working, cooking, carpentry, sewing. Many of these skills provide an opportunity for income generation through the production of authentic products; however, some of these skills are also at risk of being lost.

ForthisreasontheGovernmentofBelizecommitsitselfthroughitsresponsibleagenciesandinconjunctionwithstakeholderswhohaveaparticularinterestto:

11.4.1Supportanddevelopprogrammesfortheretrievalofsuchskillsfromamong their practitioners;

11.4.2Provide technical support and training for the production ofmarketablegoodsderivedfromBelizeanculturalcrafts;

11.4.3Establish financing mechanisms for the development of micro-enterprise and cottage industries and their respective value chains.

11.4.4 Provide support in identifying markets for such products andinitiatives(cooperatives)forefficientdistributionoftheseproducts.

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11.5 Health and Alternative (traditional) Medicine – Before conventional medical practices came to Belize, residents relied on nature-based remedies for healing. As nearly all aspects of social activity depend on good health, our ancestors had some knowledge of effective health practices. Today, herbal medicines and alternative healing practices are recognized for their health benefits. In Belize, such alternative methods are still nurtured and practiced among Belize’s cultural groups.

The Government of Belize commits itself throughitsresponsibleagenciesandinconjunctionwithstakeholderswhohaveaparticularinterestto

11.5.1Evaluatethephilosophyandhealthpracticesofpreviousgenerationsand thedegree towhich thosepracticesmaybeapplied tomodernhealthissues.

11.5.2 Conduct research into the types of traditional healing practices inBelize and the degree to which they are practiced and usedbytheBelizeanpopulation.

11.5.3Make an inventory of flora within Belize and investigate theirmedicinalpropertiesandpotentialhealthrisksandbenefits.

11.5.4Support research into and scientific development of nature-basedmedicineswhichmayhelptoenhancethewell-beingofallpersons.

11.5.5 Examine and promote economically viable traditional medicinesandpracticeswitha view to establishing IntellectualPropertyRightsandPatents.

11.5.6Investigate a health model which incorporates the best practicesin traditional medicine and conventional medicine in order to ensure the optimalhealthofourpopulation.

11.5.7Integratetraditionalmedicineintoviableeconomicmediumssuchasmedical tourism.

11.6 Family and Religion - Belize enshrines freedom of expression and religion in its Constitution.

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The many religious denominations in Belize provide educational services, contribute to national development, foster family values and promote positive activities in society. Furthermore, both men and women play significant roles in the nurturing of family and thus development of our country. Hence, the whole society benefits from active faith communities and strong families.


11.6.1 Remove all legislation that discriminates against women, men, youth or the elderly.

11.6.2Establish and support cultural programs which help to educateand provide opportunities to young men and women and in particular disadvantaged youth.

11.6.3Facilitateequityamongmenandwomeninallareasofcultureanddevelopment.

11.6.4Supportresearchon thecontributionof religiousdenominations tothe economy and national development.

11.6.5 Support religious denominations in activities which ensure that culturalandfamilyvaluesarenurturedandpromoted.

11.6.6SupportorganizationswhichprovidecarefortheelderlyanddisabledandfortheirintegrationintoandparticipationinBelizeanlife.

11.6.7 Pass legislation to establish and support cultural programs whicheliminatediscriminationagainsttheelderlyanddisabled.

11.6.8Providerecognitionandfinancialsupportforwomen’sorganizationsengaged in civic and cultural activities.

11.7 National Days, National Heroes and National Symbols – The National Culture Policy has, as two of its objectives the nurturing and development of a Belizean National Identity and awareness building with respect to the collective practices of Belize’s culturally diverse people.

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ForthisreasontheGovernmentofBelizecommitsitselfto

11.7.1 Foster among Belizeans national pride, greater commitment,responsibility,self-confidence,self-disciplineandacooperativespirit.

11.7.2Inculcateappreciationofandrespectfortheaestheticandfunctionalvaluessurroundingourhistory,nationalheroesandnationalsymbols.

11.7.3 Evaluate, revise, and implement suitable mechanisms for namingnationalheroes,nationaldaysandnationalsymbols.

11.8 Research, Cultured Archiving and Safeguarding – The actual practice of cultural forms is the primary method of preservation, conservation and promotion of those forms. However, when such forms are endangered, a secondary method of preservation, conservation and promotion of Belize’s tangible and intangible cultural is to research, document and archive such forms.


11.8.1Conduct and facilitate inventorying and research about Belize’stangibleandintangibleculturalheritage.

11.8.2 Encourage and support the research, documentation, archiving and managementofculturalrecordsandreports.

11.8.3Useaudio-visualtechnologytorecord,document,describeandpresentinformation regarding Belize’s cultural forms, giving special attention tothoseformswhichareendangered.

11.8.4Develop an ICT framework for the proper documentation, storageanddisseminationofinformationrelatingtotheculturalelementsofBelize’smulticultural society.

11.8.5Useprintmediasuchasjournals,books,newspapers,andtextbookstodocumentanddescribeBelize’sculturalforms,givingspecialattentiontothoseformswhichareendangeredorlost.

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11.8.6 Ensure that cultural pieceswhich reflect the creativity, norms andpracticesofBelizeansociety(pastandpresent)areintegratedintoaNationalCollection and are available for showcase in locations including Belize’sNationalMuseum.

11.8.7Facilitate,conductandorganizelocalandinternationalconferencesandsymposiaforpresentationanddiscussionregardingthesocial,culturalandhistoricaldimensionsofBelize’sculturalforms.

Tangible Heritage

Tangible Heritage refers to those natural cultural spaces used by Belize’s inhabitants over time and which may be used to explain how civilization developed in Belize over time. Tangible heritage also includes those man-made structures and artefacts which may be used to reveal information about how people in Belize lived in the past and in the modern context may help explain how people currently live. These include:

Archaeological and Historical Antiquities and Monuments Underwater Archaeological Heritage Colonial Sites and Landmarks

11.9 Archaeological and Historical Antiquities and Monuments – Belize is a regional inheritor of the legacy of Paleo-Indians, Archaic peoples and the ancient Maya. The physical remains of the ancient Maya civilization have been restored, conserved and established as Maya archaeological sites and reserves for the purpose of education and tourism.

For thisreasontheGovernmentofBelizecommitsitself through its responsible agencies and inconjunctionwithstakeholderswhohaveaparticularinterest to

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11.9.1EnsurethestrategicandlegalprotectionofsuchsitesandmonumentsforthebenefitofcurrentandfuturegenerationsofBelizeansandvisitorstoBelize.

11.9.2Continue to facilitate the identification, research and conservationofthesearchaeologicalsitesfortheestablishmentofaneconomicallyviablenetworkofsuchsites.

11.9.3Integrate the living cultural heritage into the activities for thepreservationandpromotionandmanagementofsuchsites.

11.9.4Support education efforts which are geared toward prevention ofdestruction,lootingandtraffickingofvaluablearchaeologicalandhistoricalartefacts.

11.9.5Provide additional financial resources to upgrade and maintainarchaeological reserves and access roads that are principal tourist destinations in accordancewith theNational Sustainable TourismMasterPlan.

11.9.6Establishanetworkofartgalleries,museums,librariesandarchivesfor the purpose of promoting and preserving culture and history and forenhancing the cultural economy.

11.9.7ReviewthecurrentNICHActgoverningourarchaeologicalheritagewith a view to strengthening the legal provisions to protect and preserve our archaeological heritage.

11.10 Underwater Archaeological Heritage- Climate change, the colonization of the Americas, and human-environmental interactions have createddiverse underwater cultural heritage in Belize. This is largely represented through the Paleo Indian, Archaic, ancient Maya, Spanish and British periods. Our multicultural and multi-ethnic history is preserved in submerged landscapes and materials that can be found in cenotes, rivers, lagoons and the territorial waters of Belize. Underwater cultural heritage ranges from fossilized Pleistocene mammals to ancient Maya production sites and various colonial ship wrecks. Underwater cultural heritage represents a diverse and endangered cultural repository that is largely undocumented.

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11.10.1 RevisittheAbandonedWreckAct,Chapter235,toensuretheproperprotectionandpreservationoftheunderwaterculturalheritageofBelize.

11.10.2 Ensure the ratification and implementation of the UNESCO 2001ConventionontheProtectionoftheUnderwaterCulturalHeritage.

11.10.3 Enable educational efforts that create awareness of underwaterculturalheritageandmitigateheritagedestructionandtrafficking.

11.10.4Identify,inventory,researchandconservetheunderwaterculturalheritageinamannerthatensuresthelongevityofthesiteorartifactanditsculturalsignificance.

11.10.5 Establish underwater archaeological reserves and destinationplanningstandardsfortheuseofunderwaterculturalheritageinheritagetourism ventures

11.10.6 Seekfinancialresourcesfrommultilateralagenciestoassistinthesustainabledevelopmentandmanagementofunderwaterculturalheritage.

11.11 Colonial Sites and Landmarks - Belize’s historic heritage includes a period of Spanish efforts at Christianization and British colonization until the time of our Independence. This colonial legacy remains, in part, in the form of architecture. The history of such colonial sites and landmarks forms part of our historic narrative, but in recent years many historic structures have come under threat of destruction because of development pressures.


11.11.1 Identify, research, catalogue, registerandconserve such sitesandlandmarksinamannerthatretainstheircolonialcharacterforthepurposeofidentity-building,educationandculturaltourism.

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11.11.2Enact legislationthatallowsforthepreservationofthesehistoricsites.

`11.11.3Establishbuildinganddestinationplanningstandardsfortheuseofcolonial and traditional architecture in cultural tourism programmes.

11.11.4 Provide incentives and tax considerations to private individuals andcorporationsthatareengagedinthepreservationofhistoricsitesandbuildings

11.11.5Seekfinancialresourcesfrommultilateralagenciestoassistinthedevelopmentofcolonialsitesandlandmarks.

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12.0 Cultural and Creative industries: Development and Promotion

Creative Industries - Culture and Heritage have been taken explicitly into consideration in discussions on economic development. The inclusion of culture in the analysis brings to the fore the advantages that the culture of the country adds to the development process. Therefore, there is the recognition of the need to build capacity of entrepreneurs and develop a cadre of professional artisans within the cultural and creative industries. There are significant opportunities to turn cultural expression into revenue generating activities. Culture and the arts possess enormous potential for earnings for the

individuals involved and for the economy as a whole. Hence, the recovery, transfer and appropriation of cultural knowledge, techniques and tools can help increase the efficiency and quality (Belize Brand) of cultural goods and services.

The many fairs and festivals organized to project cultural characteristics of Belize’s people provide a platform for the transfer of cultural knowledge in its many forms. Such festivals assist with community cohesion and identity-building and can provide economic benefits.


12.1 ProvidetechnicalsupportforthedevelopmentofaCalendarofmajorlocalfairsandfestivals.

12.2 Providefinancialsupportforthestrategicdevelopmentofmajorfairsandfestivalswhichtargetlocal,regionalandinternationalparticipantsandvisitors.

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12.3 Initiatesupportforresearchintotheeconomiccontributionofculturalphenomena(e.g.majorfestivalssuchasSanJoaquinFiesta,BenqueFiesta,CacaoFestival,CostaMayaFestival,Carnivalandothers)tothecountry.

12.4 “Belizeanize” public spaces and government offices by displayinglocally produced art, paintings, murals, images, sculptures, and posters to showthedepthofourculturaldiversityandnationalism.

12.5 Establish infrastructural, legislative, financial and other supportto allow for the development of cultural industries for the expressive anddramaticartsnamely:FineArts,FilmandAudiovisuals,Book,MusicIndustry,FashionandCrafts.

12.6 Engagewithprivatepartnersforthedevelopmentofamanagementplan and strategy for effective marketing of quality cultural goods andserviceswhichfeatureaBelizeBrand.

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13.0 Culture in Education and Environment

Education - Education has a critical, irreplaceable role in developing the creative imagination, not only for artistic interests, but problem-solving in general. Moreover, education in develops self-reliance and awareness of the social and economic opportunities that cultural heritage provides. Therefore, the policy strongly promotes teaching

appreciation for the arts in schools and encourages excellence in fields associated with culture and the arts, while recognising that some of our educational content, methodologies and structures are no longer relevant to our present aspirations.


13.1.1Ensurethatculturalcontextandknowledgeinformthedevelopmentofeducationalcontent,methodologiesandstructures

13.1.2Appoint cultural ambassadors to represent Belize, to educate ourlocal, regional and international partners in matters relating to culture, and to promote our culture.

13.1.3Insistonthefullintegrationofnationalheritage,cultureandtheartsintotheeducationofallstudentsatalleducationalinstitutions.

13.1.4Provideopportunitiesforgrants,scholarshipsandawardsforculturalworkers at various levels.

13.1.5Establish educational programmes which promote a multi-lingualsocietyandincludemodelsofInterculturalBilingualEducation(IBE).

13.1.6 Recognize and support the non-formal modes of educationwhich promote cultural awareness and appreciation, especially among disadvantaged and rural communities.

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13.1.7Supportprivatesectoreffortsoutsideoftheformaleducationsystemtopromotecreativityandself-reliance.

13.1.8Provide formal training of skilled individuals in the expressive,performingandliteraryarts.

13.1.9DevelopaliberalartsdepartmentattheNationalUniversity.

13.1.10PromoteteachingofBelizeanhistoryatalllevelsofinstructionand,further,todevelopteachingresourcesforthispurpose,includingthewritingofaGeneralHistoryofBelize.

13.2 Environment - Environmental awareness and protection of the global environmental system (for example, preventing climate change) are of pivotal importance. Cultural practices affect the environment in both positive and negative ways and should therefore be evaluated.


13.2.1Supporteffortstoinculcateintheindividualanappreciationofandrespectfortheaestheticandfunctionalvaluesofournaturalsurroundings.

13.2.2Urgegreater recognitionof the significanceofmicro-environments(landandseanationalparks,ecosystemsandsoon)inthenationalcontextandof the importanceofculturalbeliefsandpractices inpreservingthoseenvironments.

13.2.3 Urge greater sensitivity to the cultural considerations and implications inattemptingtoworkoutsolutionstoenvironmentalproblems,andinsofarasisfeasible,encouragethesolutionsthatareculturallycompliant.

13.2.4 Support through relevant government agencies and private entities research on the link between cultural practices and the environment,especiallywherethoseenvironmentsarevaluableandfragile.

13.2.5Support initiatives that promote cultural practiceswhichallow forsustainablelivelihoodandhelptoprotecttheenvironment.

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14.0 Cultural in National Development, Tourism, and Poverty Eradication

14.1 National Development - The connection between culture and development is at the heart of this document. Development is the fundamental purpose of government and its policies, and culture is inseparable from the development process.

Traditionally, national planning has focused largely on the economic aspect, not taking sufficient account of the cultural context within which this planning must be realized. The implications such planning has for the culture of the people affected affects the ultimate success of the plans. In addition, cultural goods and services could make important contributions to the national economy.


14.1.1Prepareaninventoryofallnationalculturalassetsfortheirstrategicandefficientuse.

14.1.2Conductassessmentsofthevariousagentsofdevelopment–formalorganizations,informalnetworks,socialinstitutionsandothersinordertodelineate the role that each can play in the development process.

14.1.3Support the establishment of mechanisms to address the culturalcontexts within which national planning must take place and urge that culturalconsiderationsbecomeanormalelementofnationalplanning.

14.1.4Support efforts by local entrepreneurs via funding and technicalsupport for start-up companies which use cultural forms (fashion, crafts,music,audiovisualandsoon)fortheproductionofgoodsandservices.

14.1.5Developtheentertainmentindustryandorganizethevariousactors(performers, stagemanagers,producers) intovibranteconomicsub-sectorparticipantstoalloweveryonetoexperienceBelize’sculturaldiversity.

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14.2 Tourism - Tourism makes a significant contribution to the economy and has a potential to develop good international relations, but it also poses potential hazards in the cultural sphere.

ForthisreasontheGovernmentofBelizecommitsitselfthroughitsresponsibleagenciesandin

conjunctionwithstakeholderswhohaveaparticularinterestto

14.2.1Fosteranddevelop sustainable levelsof aholistic culturalTourismexperiencesothatitbenefitslocalresidentsandlocalinstitutions.

14.2.2Encouragemeasurestoensurethatthedevelopmentoftourismdoesnotharmtheintegrityofourculturalidentityinallitsmanifestations.

14.2.3Encouragethedevelopmentofprogrammeswhicharemoreorientedtowardourculturalheritageandensurethatmorespaceismadeavailablewithintheconventionaltouristicactivitiesforsuchprogrammes.

14.2.4Supportthedevelopmentofamulticulturalmega-festivalthataimstopromotediversityandexcellenceintheartstogenerateeconomicbenefits,unitetheregionandbecomeworldrenown.

14.2.5 Promote strategies in the tourism industry which will include cultural heritage, art, craft, andotherattractionsaswell as thedevelopment of aCulturalTourismBrandforBelize.

14.2.6SupportthedevelopmentofanetworkofEnchantedBelizeanVillagesas opportunities for tourists andBelizeans to enjoy the culture, traditionsandwayoflifewithinthesecommunities.

14.2.7Encourage marketing synergies between Culture and Tourismagenciesfordestinationandeventpromotion.

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14.3 Poverty Eradication

The Government of Belize’s policy, as expressed in Horizon 2030 and the National Sustainable Tourism Master Plan and Millennium Development Goals, recognizes that the eradication of poverty is necessary for the improvement of Belizean Society.

TheGovernmentofBelizecommitsitselfto

14.3.1 Develop and implement mechanisms forthe protection of culturally related practices,skills and services fromwhich economic benefitcan derived to reduce poverty levels.

14.3.2Encourageandimplementinitiativesforthe safeguarding, preservation and promotion of cultural elementswhichhaveapotentialforsustainableeconomicreturnstoknowledgebearersandcultural practitioners.

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15.0 Culture, Youth and Technology15.1 Youth - There is an urgent need to forge relationships among young people through cultural exchange in different parts of Belize in order for them to develop appreciation for the arts, culture and history of Belize. In order to foster the development of new industries based on the creative talent of young

Belizeans, sustainable strategies for the development in arts and culture are necessary.


15.1.1Supportand facilitate cross-generational encounters so that youngpeoplemaybenefitfromtheknowledgeofthosepersonswhoarebearersofknowledgeinordertodevelopnewformsofexpression.

15.1.2Support, develop and facilitate forums, conferences and nationalshowcase eventswhich allow for youth to demonstrate and improve theircreativeandartisticabilities.

15.1.3Facilitateinexpensiveaccesstomulti-mediatechnologyandtrainingso that youth may have the opportunity to innovate and express themselves creatively.

15.1.4Provide100%freeInternetaccesstoallschools.

15.1.5 Support and develop programmes which integrate radio, television, music, cinema and audiovisual production for the purpose of modellingand teaching youth to produce world-class audio-visual products and subsequentlyshowcasetheirwork.

15.2 Youth and Sports - Recognizing the vital role played by sports in economic development, in the development of a healthy nation, for projecting national culture and pride into international context and as a unifying force, TheGovernmentofBelize

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15.2.1Supports all efforts to promote and develop a high standard ofsportingactivitynationallyandregionally,bearinginmindthepersonalandsocialbenefitsofdiscipline,prideandcooperationengenderedbyplayingtoa high standard.

15.2.2Supports and encourages research and promotion of sporting,recreationalandleisureactivitiestraditionaltoBelize,someofwhichareindangerofdisappearing.

15.2.3Pledges technical and financial support for well-established andfunctionalagenciesthatfocusonthedevelopmentofexcellenceinnationalsportsteamsandforthepurposeofprojectingBelizeanexcellenceontotheworldstageandprovidingeconomicopportunitiesforouryouth.

15.2.4Pledgestostrategicallyconstructworld-classsportingfacilities.

15.3 ICT (Internet & Communication Technology) & Mass Media

Conventional mass media and the modern social media have enormous potential for both positively and negatively shaping perceptions and values and influencing action; technology is also important for the preservation of our heritage and for subsequent development and enhancement of cultural activities.


15.3.1Lobby for lower rates for higher bandwidths for Internet usage inordertoencouragecollaborationbetweenprofessionalsindifferentpartsofthe country or outside the country.

15.3.2SupportandencouragetheuseofthemassmediatopresentapositiveportrayalofBelizeanlifeandtoencouragehonestreflectionanddiscussionon our overall direction and goals.

15.3.3EncouragetheuseofthemassandsocialmediatodisseminatemorewidelyknowledgeoftheworkofBelizeanartists.

15.3.4Supporteffortstodevelopamongaudiencesthecapacitytocriticallyassess the media.

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15.3.5Promote and support efforts to utilize the media and internet tofosteraspiritofBelizeanandCaribbeanunity,includingjointproductionofprogrammeswhichintegrateCaribbeanandLatinAmericaculturaldiversity;andtoinitiatestepstosecuretheexpertiseandtechnologynecessaryforsuchactivities.

15.3.6DevelopaCultural InformationandExchangeNetwork inorder tofacilitateculturaldialogueandexchangeaswellasforinformationsharinginbothnationalandinternationaldomains.

15.3.7Support efforts which foster creative technological solutions tomodernproblemsofaculturalheritageindustry.

15.3.8RecognizeandaccordvaluetothetraditionofindigenoustechnologyinBelizeandsupporteffortstoresearchandusesuchtechnology.

15.3.9 Develop the Belize Cultural Information Management System – amechanismfortheaccuratecollection,trackingandreportingofourculturalresources.

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16.0 Domestic, Regional and International Cultural Relations

The multi-cultural nature of Belize requires that we address issues of geographic location and settlement patterns of Belizeans, cross-cultural dialogue, our Diaspora and a changing demographic profile. For these reasons, cultural exchanges within Belize and outside of our national border are critical for respect, tolerance and social cohesion.

16.1 Domestic Cultural Exchange – Cultural Exchange within the context of a multicultural Belize is critical to mitigating the effects of cultural misrepresentation, stereotyping and discrimination among Belize’s cultural groups.


16.1.1Supportandfacilitateprogramswhichallowforculturalexchangesand in particular programs involving interactions across generations and among youth.

16.1.2Declare a single national day for all cultures of Belize and forcelebratingandshowcasingourmulticulturalism.

16.2 Diaspora – A significant number of Belizeans have migrated abroad but retain strong loyalty to and affection for Belize, “This Jewel of Ours”. These Belizean remit large financial sums, as well as knowledge and skills, to Belize.

TheGovernment of Belize through its relevant agencies and embassies athomeandabroadcommitsitselfto

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16.2.1 Engage with and include all Belizean communities abroad in the processes, programmes and strategies for cultural development and nation building.

16.3 Cultural Councils and Organizations – Cultural Councils and organizations are principal actors in the preservation, retrieval, and presentation of Belize’s intangible cultural forms including languages, oral traditions, music, and craft skills.

TheGovernmentofBelizecommitsitselfto

16.3.1Providetechnicalsupportforthefullestablishmentofsuchculturalcouncils in order to ensure equitable representation of Belize’s culturalinterestsinpublicspheres.

16.3.2Provide financial support, where possible, to those councils andorganizationsthatareabletopresentaclearagendaforworkinpreservation,retrievalandpresentationofBelize’sculturalforms.

16.4 Private Museums and Houses and Culture and Art Galleries - There is a need to encourage local communities to tell their stories, to express their creativity and to be involved in the social discourse of the nation.


16.4.1Support and assist private cultural entities, where possible, in thedevelopmentofprivatemuseumsandlocalhousesofculture.

16.4.2Establishanetworkofprivateandpublicmuseums,housesofcultureandgalleriesinanefforttonurtureandsustainexcellenceinthecreationofnewanddynamicformsofculturalproducts,includingthedevelopmentofstandards and regulations.

16.5 Regional and International Cultural Exchange and Relations – Cross-border and cultural exchanges have global benefits as mechanisms for achieving integration and minimizing conflict.

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16.5.1Provideandfacilitateopportunitiesforculturalexchangeviaregionalfairs,festivalsandacademicconferencesandsymposia.

16.5.2Conduct an assessment of the mechanisms used for the localadministrationoftheseinternationalconventions.

16.5.3ProperlyevaluatethebenefitsofsigningandratifyinginternationalculturalconventionssuchasthosesponsoredbytheEEU,UNESCO,ACP,SICA,andCARICOM.

16.5.4Sign agreements that promote Belize’s cultural agenda and thatprotect and preserve our cultural heritage and also enter into cooperation and trade agreements which include cultural products in the trade repertoire ofthecountry.

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17.0 Finance and Administration of Culture

The implementation of the National Culture Policy requires that budgetary and administrative provisions are made subsequent to a period of socialization and identification of strategic actions for inclusion in the national, ministerial, departmental, and private sector work plans.

The Government of Belize also recognizes the importance of both Government agencies and Non-Governmental agencies in the adoption of the policy positions for their effective implementation and service to the people of Belize.

17.1 MTCCA and NICH - Hence, the Government of Belize has provided The National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) with the legal mandate to administer and finance the culture and history agenda in Belize. The National Institute for Culture and History is a statutory body within the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation.

Asaresult,theGovernmentofBelizecommitsitselfto

17.1.1 Strengthen the Ministry of Culture with the resources to providetechnical and policy level support and to promote inter-ministerial collaboration.

17.1.2ReviseandenactlegislationtofurtherempowerNICHtocarryoutitsmandate.

17.1.3 Build administrative and technical capacity within the National InstituteofCultureandHistorytoaidthedevelopmentofthecultureagenda.

17.1.4Facilitate and support the development and proper functioning ofrelevantnon-governmentalagenciesforcultureand history.

17.1.5Provide opportunities for capacity-building of persons within non-governmental and community-based cultural agencies for culture andhistory.

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17.1.6Formalizeaprocessthroughwhichnon-governmentalandcommunity-basedculturalagenciesmaybeabletoaccesslocalfundingthroughNICH,creditunions,banksorotherappropriatelendingagencies.

17.1.7Facilitate linkages and develop programs through which non-governmentalandcommunity-basedculturalagenciesmaybeabletoaccessregionalandinternationalfunding.

17.1.8Promotepublicandprivatesectorpartnershipsforthefinanceoftheartsandculturethroughfinancialandtaxincentives.

17.1.9Establishalternativemeansfortheconstructionandmaintenanceofculturalinfrastructure.

17.1.10 Ensure that local cultural councils and community organizations playanintegralroleinthefinancingandadministrationofcultureandthearts.

17.1.11 Develop an implementation, monitoring and evaluation regimeinvolving all stakeholders for the execution of the policies outlined in theNational Cultural Policy.

17.1.12EstablishaNationalEndowmentfortheArtsandCulturetoallowforincreasedculturalandcreativeoutputandinordertoboostthecreativepotentialoftheBelizeanpopulation.

17.2 National Museum of Belize – Belize owns very many cultural artefacts which it can showcase and use for education and economic gain.

The Government therefore commitsitselfto

17.2.1ContinuetousetheMuseumofBelizelocatedinBelizeCityforitscurrentfunctionforeducationandtourism.

17.2.2 Identify a suitable space for the construction of a state-of-the-artnationalmuseumastheshowcaseofBelize’smaterialandintangiblecultureand history.

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17.2.3Allocate additional resources for construction of a state-of-the-artcentreforthedepositandconservationofancientandcontemporaryculturalmaterials.

17.3 Cultural Spaces and Houses of Culture – Public and private museums and culture houses provide an opportunity for the demonstration of community cultural forms and materials.

The government and its community partners and private sector commit themselves to

17.3.1Identify suitable spaces for the construction, refurbishment andsystematic maintenance of adequate and world-class venues for theperformingandexpressivearts.

17.3.2Establishanetworkofmuseumsandhousesofcultureforthepurposeofdevelopingstandardsforthepresentationandshowcaseofculturalformsand materials.

17.4 Belize Cultural Information Management System – In order to ensure that Belize is able to adequately account for culture’s contribution to Belize’s tourism and social sector and in order that Belize may be able to adhere to regional and international obligations for information sharing,

TheGovernmentofBelizecommitsitselfthroughitsresponsibleagenciesandinconjunctionwithstakeholderswhohaveaparticularinterestto

17.4.1 DevelopaCulturalInformationManagementSystemforthepurposeof qualitatively and quantitatively describing culture and for identifyingstatistical trends which may help with decision-making and investment in culture.

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18.0 Concluding Remarks

What is to be achieved from this National Cultural Policy?

A sociologist writing on Belize, commented, that “real national liberation and human emancipation may yet be achieved in Belize on the basis of a national integration that respects racial and cultural pluralism”. This statement begs the question: How do we educate Belizeans on our heritage? How do we foster the building of a nation and at the same time create the enabling environment that captures the spirit and beauty of our peoples? A most difficult task indeed! The National Cultural policy is a critical step in this direction. After two years of consultations and drafting we have a document that the Government of Belize is committed to enshrine as policy to guide our country in its efforts to build a nation.

In Belize today, the exerted pressure of nation building compels our peoples to strengthen our abilities to organize in order to generate, social, political and economic opportunities. But, for our diverse ethnic groups to generate these opportunities with any effectiveness, it will require us to better understand the significance of our past and cultural practices that have shaped our identity. Embracing this identity may lead towards achieving greater social mobilization within the new nation; while also safeguarding against the potential pressures to confirm in the nation’s complex and culturally plural society. The National Cultural Policy provides a framework to guide us all in this direction.

Historically we can ascertain that when our material and economic conditions of life change and people strive to understand these changes and their understanding of the world they generate a new culture one that may make more sense not only to them but to their children. Hence the Government of Belize through the National Cultural Policy will ensure that those attributes specific to culture such as cultural practices, art, music and archaeological explorations can be properly understood as essential for the safeguarding and showcase of the lived culture.

On the other hand, The National Cultural Policy recognizes that museums, houses of culture and other cultural spaces are important for the dissemination of knowledge about our national cultures and about our historic past and are also interactive spaces to allow for greater participation by children and families.

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The overarching theme of the National Culture Policy document relates to the decentralized nature of culture. Cultural organizations provide a forum for the transformation of cultural knowledge and practices into a cohesive, social environment which allows for democratic inclusion of the Belizean population (but only if we allow them agency and voice).

Finally, the Government of Belize, through the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture advocates for the financing and the institutionalization of NICH as the organization that is the most important to establish cultural strategies and objectives that can inform and implement a national cultural policy on its behalf and thereby ensuring that the Government and people of Belize accrue tremendous capital via the achievement of the goals and vision enshrined in the National Cultural Policy.

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Documents

National Culture Policy 2014