Posted: Thursday, March 31, 2016. 11:08 a.m. CST
By Aaron Humes: A ten year National Cultural Policy presented today seeks to guide the safeguarding and preservation of Belize’s cultural heritage, promoting artistic expression, and enabling social and economic development through culture.
President of the National Institute of Culture and History Diane Haylock said that this is the culmination of many years of work and consultation on the direction of the policy. Its cornerstone is a bill of cultural rights emphasizing culture as the center of the Belizean humanity.
A national culture model establishes that culture emanates from all demographic sectors and their collaboration is necessary for advancement. Thus, culture is linked to creative industries, education and environment, tourism, Youth and sports, as well as standing in the region.
The policy proposes, in part, to conserve and restore Belize’s historic sites and landmarks; promote research on traditional medicinal practices and national art and history education; establish a Cultural Development Fund and the national brand; invest in cultural and creative industries; protect intellectual property; train and promote youth in technology, sports and culture; encouraging international cultural exchange; promote a culturally based environment al protection initiatives; development of national festivals and day of Belizean cultures.
A national education campaign begins shortly.
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