Tag:
Queen Elizabeth II
Business & Economy
New banknotes featuring national heroes to roll out later this year
In September 2024, the Central Bank of Belize (CBB) announced plans to introduce a new family of banknotes in early 2025. The designs for the new banknotes, which will narrate stories about the country's rich and diverse heritage, are expected to be revealed in January. These new bills will also incorporate the latest security features to combat counterfeiting. Furthermore, the CBB has confirmed that the banknotes will honor two of Belize's national heroes: the late Right Honorable George Cadle Price and the late Honorable Philip Goldson. The new banknotes will continue to be valued at US$1 to BZ$2.
Arts & Culture
Belizean composer Errollyn Wallen appointed Master of the King’s Music
A Belizean-born composer, pianist, singer, and songwriter, Errollyn Wallen, made history as the first black woman to be appointed as Master of the King's Music by King Charles. The appointment took place on Monday, August 26th. Wallen, known for her compositions for prestigious events, has participated in the BBC Proms, the 2012 Paralympic Games, and Queen Elizabeth II's jubilees. She succeeded Dame Judith Weir and is now the first woman to hold the 10-year position of Master of the King's Music.
Government
National Heroes RT. Hon. George Price and Hon. Philip Goldson to be featured on new Belize dollar notes
The Belize dollar bills will soon bear new images, and it will not be King Charles III of the United Kingdom (UK), the country’s new head of state, following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. While the face of the late queen graces the Belizean currency notes, the images as per the Government of Belize (GOB) for the upcoming new batch will include that of national heroes, the late Right Honourable and Father of Belize’s Independence George Cadle Price and the Father of Democracy, the late Honourable Philip Goldson.
Community and Society
National Service Day honors the late Rt. Hon. George Price and Queen Elizabeth II
The National Service Day this year on Monday, September 19th commemorating the 11th anniversary of the passing of the Father of the Nation, the late Right Honourable George Cadle Price, was also a holiday to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s death. That same day she was being buried in London, England, and Belize’s Governor General, Her Excellency Dame Froyla Tzalam, attended on behalf of the country to pay our respects to the former Head of State. The day was celebrated with civic activities in places like San Pedro Town, while a Wreath Laying ceremony took place in Belize City at Price’s resting place.
Community and Society
San Pedro celebrates Central American and Mexican independence
An evening full of great food, entertainment, and cultural presentation brought back the anticipated Noche Centro Americana to San Pedro Town on Friday, September 16th. The event, which experienced a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, serves to celebrate the independence day celebrations of five Central American countries and Mexico.
Community and Society
Monday to be observed as National Holiday to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral
It has been confirmed following the weekly Cabinet meeting that Monday, September 19th, will be observed in Belize as a national holiday in honor of the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. The late British monarch was Belize’s Head of State and passed away on September 8th. Her eldest son Prince Charles ascended to the throne, becoming the United Kingdom’s King and Head of State of Belize and the Commonwealth.
Community and Society
The future of the British monarchy in Belize; will Belize remove the Queen?
Unlike Belize, where Queen Elizabeth II is the head of state, close allies like Barbados have moved away from this system and cut ties with the British crown. As reports indicate Jamaica is next in line to ax Her Majesty from their government, the question among Belizeans now is whether Belize will follow suit. Prime Minister Honourable Dr. John Briceño commented on this inquiry, hinting that if anything relating to the matter takes place in the country, it will first involve the opinion of the Belizean public.
Community and Society
Queen Elizabeth II celebrates 70 years in the British monarchy and head of the Commonwealth
On Monday, February 7th, royal gun salutes echoed in London and Edinburgh in the United Kingdom, marking Queen Elizabeth II's 70th year on the throne. The celebration dubbed 'Platinum Jubilee' celebrates the 95-year-old British royal, who has become the world's oldest and longest-reigning monarch. As per the Royal Family's web portal, the historic Platinum Jubilee celebrations will span throughout the UK, the Commonwealth of which Belize is part of, and worldwide. The Queen is Belize's official Head of State, represented by Governor General Froyla Tzalam.
