As the Prime Minister’s Wife, Kim Simplis-Barrow has become the official spokesperson for the cause of those Belizeans with disabilities, appearing in public announcements, and participating in numerous advocacy campaigns. She was at it again today, working with the NGO known as CARE, whose vision is full inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the community through Participatory Development. As an activity for Early Stimulation Month, CARE Belize under the patronage of Kim Barrow presented several pre-schools with a plaque as a sign of appreciation for creating inclusive environments. Jim McFadzean was at the presentation made at the Mina Grant and Ethel Vargas pre-school located at the mouth of Majestic Alley. He spoke with Simplis-Barrow about the challenges of inclusion.
Jim McFadzean,
“How challenging is it now for schools at this early age making accommodation for children with the disabilities?”
Kim Simplis-Barrow, CARE Spokeswoman
“It is very challenging but we are hoping that with this exhibition that we just saw that we get more and more schools trying to accommodate these children. It is very important to start from early. They have a rightful place in our society and a rightful place in schools. So we are encouraging schools to ensure that they accept kids with disabilities. It doesn’t matter the age, we have to start from early. One of the things that is still happening is that a lot of these children are kept at home and they are abandoned at home, they are not there, parents are ashamed, they are embarrassed, and they are outcast. And so we want to show these parents that these kids can learn and that these kids can come from school and that they can have a social life just like anyone of us.”
Jim McFadzean,
“And then just finally, will you be using your influence with your husband the Prime Minister to open up funds or to at least address some of these same challenges?”
Kim Simplis-Barrow,
“I think a very important thing is advocacy and I try to work with all organizations that are promoting inclusive education. CARE Belize is doing a fantastic job and I will always try to help them whichever way I can and of course when it comes to funding I try through Lifeline Foundation to raise funds for children in general. So I try to do my part.”
Similar presentations were made at Kiddies Campus, Pine Street and St Martin de Porres Pre-Schools.
