Last year, WIN-Belize collaborated with over seventy organizations and schools to address issues surrounding HIV/AIDS and Gender Based Violence through its second Torch Run during the 16 Days of Activism. This event facilitated the unifying of men, women and children in responding to Gender Based Violence as well as HIV/AIDS. A torch of hope was carried by runners through the principal streets of Belize's district towns. WIN-Belize additionally advocated for the elimination of stigma and discrimination, encouraged victims of abuse to speak out and promoted the importance of uniting families to put an end to these societal ills that continue to plague our communities.

Due to the success of last year's Torch Run, the Women's Issues Network of Belize (WIN-Belize) is planning to hold another Torch Run during the sixteen days of activism to strengthen awareness about these issues, as well as bring them to the forefront of national consciousness in its ongoing effort to receive a unified response.

The tentative dates set for the torch run are as follows:

Punta Gorda November 17th

Dangriga November 18th

Belmopan & San Ignacio November 20th

Belize City November 23rd

San Pedro November 24th

Caye Caulker November 27th

Orange Walk November 28th

Corozal December 1st



This year's event will include a Rock the Mic (against HIV/AIDS and Gender Based Violence) Concert. Various bands and performers, such as Some Dudes from Orange Walk Town, Echoes from Cayo and San Pedro's very own DNA, Natalie Arceo and Young Soldier will participate in the event. Schools have been invited to take part too in the form of fun, Carnaval booths with games, food, and drinks. The entire town is asked to enter the show grounds at the San Pedro High School Auditorium/Civic Center at a minimal fee of $1. Needless to say, a venture as big as this one requires a lot of funding. WIN Belize, prides itself in being a not for profit organization and as such we have minimal financial resources. We are, therefore, requesting a kind assistance from your business establishment. Accommodations, meals, transportation (both for performers and equipment) are among our highest expenses. If you would like to provide a room, meal or monetary donation, please let us know. It will be a night for the entire town to enjoy. Please, we need your support to make it happen.

Kindly contact The San Pedro Sun, Maria Novelo at 226-2070 or 605-7279. One man, one woman, one people! United for HIV/Aids and Gender based violence!!!


Maria Novelo
Coordinator for San Pedro
226-2070
605-7279