In a vibrant effort to mark Women’s Month, members of the Eastern Division of the Belize Police Department rolled up their sleeves and engaged in significant community projects on March 20, 2025. These dedicated officers, led by an inspiring group of women, conducted various initiatives including the much-needed upgrade of parks in Belize City, demonstrating their commitment to giving back to the very community they serve.
At the center of this initiative was Armadillo Park, located off Dolphin Street in Belize City. Here, the officers transformed a previously neglected area into a welcoming space for local children. Speaking on the significance of this event, Inspector Hortence Hernandez highlighted the officers’ grassroots approach in organizing the project. "What we have for Eastern Police Division... we decided to give back to the community, where we adopt a park. For Prosecution Branch, they decided to feed the homeless on the streets..." she explained.
The community-supported project was not only about beautifying a park; it was about building trust and cooperation between police officers and residents. The community’s palpable appreciation was evident as children expressed their delight at the newly renovated playground. "One of them said to us, Miss, thank you very much for cleaning our park..." remarked Hernandez, noting how local kids even participated in painting the basketball court.
Inspector Bernadine Sagasa, who commands Precinct II, reiterated the importance of female officers’ engagement in community programs. "Celebrating women is very important... we are looked at as nurturers, as parents, you know, even on the job," she shared. Her remarks highlight a dual role that women in law enforcement perform—serving as authorities while often embodying community caregivers.
These community projects are particularly noteworthy as they represent a significant shift in how police and the public interact. Historically viewed as enforcers, police officers are now beginning to foster closer ties with the communities they serve. "Most of the time we’re looked at as different and as enemies towards the public but engaging in activities like this encourages the community to work with us more," Sagasa noted.
Her remarks were echoed by Commissioner Chester Williams, who pointed out the historical context of women in Belizean law enforcement stretching back to 1963. "Women in law enforcement can be traced all the way back to 1963... We try to promote people based on their skills and their job knowledge as opposed to their gender," he emphasized. As of now, the Belize Police Department boasts nearly 600 female officers serving at various ranks throughout the institution, proudly showing that policing is far from a one-gender domain.
This initiative was not merely a charitable effort, but a powerful statement of the evolving role of women in law enforcement. At its core, this blossoming engagement with the community signifies a broader transformation in the perception of police officers—from authority figures to community partners.
The initiative was undoubtedly grounded in a commitment to social responsibility, aiming to show residents that law enforcement is about much more than just law and order. It’s about making everyday lives better, about ensuring safety, and indeed, about community building.
As conversations about police reform and community relations continue to dominate public discourse, initiatives like this can help reshape perceptions, allowing for smoother interactions between police and community members. Recognizing the efforts and contributions of women in law enforcement, especially during Women’s Month, adds another layer of appreciation for the diverse roles these individuals play both inside and outside the department.
Through this project and others like it, the Belize Police Department is moving forward with a vision that includes community respect and engagement. These actions not only establish trust but also show a commitment to public service that extends beyond the badge. As they engage with their communities, these officers redefine the role of policing in Belize, making it clear that at the heart of their mission are the people they serve.
As Women’s Month celebrates the achievements of women, the contributions and potential impacts of female officers are a vital part of this narrative. In the future, as these women continue to lead projects that uplift their communities, it is hoped that the trust between law enforcement and the public will only grow stronger.
