For Children With Disabilities

A Sub-Regional Commitment

The Special Envoy amplified her efforts on behalf of children with disabilities to the CARICOM sub-region. She believes that all children, especially those with disabilities, should not be left behind, and holds fast to the view that as the world becomes more technologically advanced, so too should the services and care for our most vulnerable population.

In October 2016, the Special Envoy, with support from UNICEF and CARICOM, hosted the first-ever regional partnership conference for children with disabilities under the theme “Breaking Barriers for an Inclusive Society and Empowerment of Children with Disabilities”.

This two-day conference brought together regional partners, CARICOM First Ladies and national stakeholders who exchanged best practices and experiences. Issues affecting children with disabilities were highlighted and participating countries and organizations committed to working toward making disabilities a crosscutting issue among governments, civil society, and the private sector. The conference also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to re-commit to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

The conference kicked off with an early morning walk entitled “Walk With Us!” which was a health-promoting and awareness-raising activity that featured the First Ladies, children with disabilities and other advocates. The Walk was followed by an inclusive mixed-team football match with members of Special Olympics Belize and Belize's Baby Jaguars football team. Both events were coordinated to promote an environment that inspires acceptance, inclusion, solidarity, and enjoyment for all.