So, while Alpuche is happy to see that bill pass in the House and the Senate, she told the press yesterday that she is disappointed that the Equal Opportunities Bill was withdrawn by the Barrow Government.
That's the draft piece of legislation spearheaded by the National Aids Commission and its Chair, House Speaker Laura Tucker-Longsworth. She and her team spent almost 2 years producing a bill that sought to make Belize a fairer, more inclusive society. The bill intended to empower the victims of 19 different forms of discrimination. But, because the Evangelicals energetically opposed it due to its pro-gay elements, the Barrow government had to withdraw it before the parliament even had time to consider it.
Here's Alpuche's take on the resistance that the bill received:
Reporter
"Were you disappointed that the Equal Opportunities Bill did not make it to the House or the House Committee?"
Judith Alpuche
"Absolutely, because, as you know, I'm a proponent of that EOB. I continue to be. I feel very strongly that every human being has dignity and worth. I believe very strongly that the state, as the duty-bearer, must protect everyone from discrimination. And the same way, I think that bills over and above in protecting the rights of the Church. Everybody's rights must be protected. So, I can tell you I, Judith Alpuche, am still committed to ensuring that there is equal protection for people under the law, and that people do not face hate and discrimination in this country."
Reporter
"Do you imagine that the bill will be brought back after elections?"
Judith Alpuche
"That is for the political directorate. I can tell you what I will do as an advocate."
Alpuche was among the public officials who engaged in a tour of public consultations on the bill for several months before a final draft was taken to Cabinet for consideration.
