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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

4 days ago

Ministry of Equity Unveils Social Protection Week Castries, October 17, 2024 - To draw attention to the advancements made in the Social Protection system and increase understanding of the value of social services for disadvantaged populations, the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment has formally launched Social Protection Week.This week-long event, running from October 14 to October 20, 2024, marks the beginning of a renewed commitment to reducing social, cultural, political, and economic barriers while shining a spotlight on the work of the Ministry and its partners with stakeholders in alleviating hardship and building resilience for all citizens.The launch introduced the Social Protection Commission (SPC) Secretariat, which will play a central role in implementing and monitoring the National Social Protection Policy (NSPP) and the Graduation Strategy to uplift vulnerable communities.Permanent Secretary Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel underscored the importance of this initiative in creating a more inclusive and accessible social service system."The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment aims to showcase the social protection system in Saint Lucia. Social Protection is an umbrella term for alleviating hardship, buffer shocks, and addressing socio-economic vulnerabilities. Since 2012, Saint Lucia has strengthened its Social Protection system under the Joint UN SDG Program with key achievements like the National Social Protection Policy, SL Net 3.0, and improved targeting. We acknowledge four key pillars: Social Insurance, Social Assistance, Social Care and Support, and Livelihood and Labor Market Support. Our collaborative approach with civil society partners and stakeholders is key to achieving our 2030 social transformation and resilience goals," noted Dr. Hippolyte Emmanuel.The new Inter-Ministerial Committee on Social Protection will guide the policy framework, with regular consultations with the Civil Society Platform on Social Protection, to ensure that beneficiary voices are heard. In addition, a National Social Protection Appeals Board will be established to address concerns about service delivery and beneficiary selection, ensuring transparency and accountability. Hon. Joachim Henry, Minister for Equity, highlighted the NSPP as a foundational document for reducing poverty and ensuring every citizen has access to the basic rights they deserve."The National Social Protection Policy and action plan is critical. It's critical for what we have to do. In fact, it's just the tip of the ice because we've really started the conversation. We've, of course, prepared quite a bit of tools and documents, manuals, and of course, I know the stories about these instruments too well, because sometimes, be they become documents that sit on shelves, and sometimes we do not operationalize it. But I'm happy for some of the more tangible progress that we've made as it relates to this initiative. And of course, I can speak to the collaboration between Koudmen Ste Lisi and the Ministry of Equity. This has potential for really transforming what we do at the Ministry of Equity, and responding to vulnerable population," exclaimed Minister Henry. The launch of Social Protection Week reaffirms the Ministry of Equity's commitment to strengthening partnerships with civil society organizations, ensuring that Saint Lucia's social protection system evolves to deliver meaningful outcomes for all as work continues towards a 2030 goal of improved social transformation. ENDContacts:Anicia Antoine, Information Assistant (Ag.), Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5146, E: anicia.antoine@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

2 weeks ago

Ministry of Equity Launches Much Anticipated Feedback Redress Mechanism (FRM) Castries, October 8, 2024 - To further enhance the reach and effectiveness of its social assistance programs and improve the targeting and coverage of assistance to vulnerable persons in Saint Lucia, the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment has officially launched the Feedback Redress Mechanism (FRM). The FRM, part of the broader implementation of the National Social Protection Policy 2022-2030, provides an avenue for citizens and beneficiaries of social assistance to offer feedback or submit complaints about varied programme services. The platform will be available to all individuals and families accessing social assistance programmes across various sectors, including the Ministry of Equity, the SSDF, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Education. Beneficiaries can use the FRM to highlight concerns, report issues, or offer suggestions on how programmes can better serve the community. The goal is to ensure that those most in need receive appropriate support while giving decision-makers the insights they need to redirect resources where necessary. Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment, Dr. CharmaineHippolyte Emmanuel says the FRM is not only a tool for feedback but a dignified platform, ensuring that everyone who depends on these social services has the means to be heard and for the system to respond effectively. "The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment prides itself on improving service delivery. We strive toward excellence and want to ensure our people are heard and responded to. I'm confident that this approach will help strengthen our existing social protection initiatives and boost the confidence of our service users." The participation of key stakeholders, including Social Transformation Officers, members of the Welfare Unit, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), highlights their essential role in supporting the Ministry's efforts to improve social services and achieve sustainable results for those who need it most. Regional Coordinator for Caritas Antilles, Marcia Haywood, emphasized that introducing the FRM will promote greater transparency, accountability, and responsibility. "Many of the people we serve are the same target group that the Ministry and the Government work with, so I believe this initiative will be instrumental in ensuring that the future of social protection is a healthy one, a functional one, and has an accountability mechanism built into the system." The launch of the Feedback Redress Mechanism reaffirms the commitment of the Ministry of Equity Social Justice and Empowerment to building resilient communities and ensuring that every citizen can live with respect and security. ENDContacts:Anicia Antoine, Information Assistant (Ag.), Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5146, E: anicia.antoine@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

3 weeks ago

Government of Saint Lucia Advances Plans for Youth Services CenterCastries, October 2, 2024 - The Government of Saint Lucia is making significant strides towards fulfilling its commitment to repurpose and retrofit the former George Charles Secondary School into a state-of-the-art Youth Services Centre for children, adolescents and youth in need of care and protection. On September 24, 2024, Acting Minister for Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment, Hon. Dr. Pauline Antoine, along with senior officials and key stakeholders, conducted a site visit to assess the progress of the project.Dr. Antoine emphasized the importance of providing youth in need of care and protection with the necessary support. “We really want to have an appreciation of exactly what the structure will look like when it's finished. We look forward to the completion of this building and the Ministry will do everything possible to ensure that the funding and logistics are put in place, to ensure that our children and our young people get a better of refuge to come, because as you know, we are dealing with children who are in crisis and who have been displaced etc.,” Dr. Antoine remarked.Permanent Secretary, Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel, highlighted that the site visit was part of ongoing stakeholder engagement and decision-making processes, aimed at ensuring the project meets its objectives."We are excited that we are moving towards this goal post and that our objectives are being met in the sense that we continue to monitor what is happening, we continue to review our plans and of course we look forward to the actual commencement of the project. This is all in an effort to ensure that our youth, young people and adolescents will receive the best of services,” stated Dr. Hippolyte Emmanuel.She further noted that the offerings of the Youth Services Center will align with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, as well as the Ministry's overarching mandate to protect and empower the nation’s vulnerable populations.For nearly two decades, successive governments have expressed the need for a Youth Services Centre, which will replace the current Boys Training Centre (BTC), the New Beginnings Transit Home, and the Upton Gardens Girls Centre. The new facility will mark a significant step in improving care and support for Saint Lucia’s youth. END Contacts:Anicia Antoine, Information Assistant 111(Ag.), Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5146, E: anicia.antoine@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

4 weeks ago

Smart Targeting and Clear Graduation Pathways signal A New Era in Social ProtectionCivil Society Orgs within the SP Network welcome NSPP upgradesCastries, September 24, 2024 - At the recent launch of Saint Lucia's Civil Society Platform for Social Protection, officials highlighted three key innovations that promise to transform the nation's approach to poverty reduction: the updated National Social Protection Policy (NSPP) and Action Plan, a new strategy for graduation from Social Assistance and an improved Saint Lucia National Eligibility Targeting Tool (SL Net) targeting tool.These developments, stemming from the recently revised National Social Protection Policy, represent significant steps towards more effective and sustainable social protection measures.Ms. Tanzia Toussaint, Deputy Director of Social Transformation at the Ministry of Equity, emphasized the importance of the revised SL Net 3.0 tool. "Before, it was just a paper-based application, but now it has become an electronic-based application. It’s not just about collecting the data, but about what the data informs us—what we derive from it, what trends we notice, and how we can improve these systems."The SL Net 3.0 has already been instrumental in two nationwide recertification exercises, conducted in 2020 and 2023. However, Toussaint noted areas for future improvement: "Some agencies have been utilizing it. I know for sure the SSDF has been using the SL Net because it is a targeting tool that determines and tells us when a person is deprived. Other things will eventually evolve to determine the depth of deprivation. At present, it does not determine the depth of deprivation; it only determines eligibility through the cash transfer grant. It has been used since then, and we continue to use and modify it."Complementing the enhanced targeting tool is the new Graduation Strategy, which aims to provide pathways out of poverty for beneficiaries of social assistance programs. John Victorin, Executive Director of the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), provided insights into how this strategy is being implemented through programs like Koudmen St. Lucie."At the SSDF, we have embraced two streams of programming: one where we provide support to individuals with immediate relief needs, and the other is the empowerment approach, which is what we really want to place greater emphasis on moving forward. Programs such as the Koudmen St. Lucia program, the All Boys Matter program, and the Community Reentry program are empowerment initiatives we are focusing on at the SSDF. The goal is not just to provide individuals with temporary relief but to empower them and put them on a path that will lift them above the poverty line, allowing them to survive, thrive, and succeed as individuals."The Koudmen St. Lucie program offers pathways including micro-enterprise development, entrepreneurship training, and job placement, supported by a range of services from grocery support to skills training.This dual approach of improved targeting and structured graduation pathways represents a significant shift in Saint Lucia's social protection landscape. "It is not just a matter of providing individuals with support in the form of temporary relief, but ensuring we empower these individuals to put them along a path that would get them over the poverty line," Mr. Victorin emphasized.The introduction of these tools comes at a crucial time, as Saint Lucia, like many nations, grapples with the economic aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The improved targeting mechanism and graduation strategy are expected to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of social protection programs, ensuring that resources reach those most in need while also providing clear pathways out of poverty.Both Ms. Toussaint and Mr. Victorin stressed that the success of these new approaches will depend on continued collaboration among all stakeholders. The recently launched Civil Society Platform is expected to play a crucial role in this regard, facilitating information sharing and coordinated efforts among government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations.As Saint Lucia continues to refine and implement these new social protection tools, the focus remains on creating a more resilient, empowered population. With improved targeting and clear graduation pathways. The Government of Saint Lucia, through the Ministry of Equity is making important strides towards its goal of sustainable poverty reduction and enhanced social protection for all citizens. ENDContacts:Anicia Antoine, Information Assistant (Ag.), Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5146, E: anicia.antoine@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

1 month ago

Ministry of Equity Launches CSO Platform for Social ProtectionCastries, Saint Lucia; September 20, 2024 - The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment launched the Civil Society Platform for Social Protection, marking a significant milestone in the implementation of Saint Lucia's National Social Protection Policy (NSPP 2022-2030). The inaugural meeting, held at the National Skills Development Center, brought together representatives from various non-governmental organizations, government officials, and stakeholders in the social protection sector.The key discussion points included the structure and function of the Social Protection System, the Implementation of the NSPP Action Plan, Registration processes for Civil Society Organizations and the role of civil society in supporting vulnerable populations.Mr. Kendal Elva, Deputy Director of Social Transformation, emphasized the critical importance of this initiative, “The Ministry of Equity views civil society organizations as being very important in the quest to achieve the mandate of protecting all Saint Lucians from shocks, such as those experienced during the COVID pandemic, or when someone becomes unemployed or falls into poverty. The Ministry of Equity recognizes that various civil society organizations are contributing to this very important process.”The Civil Society Platform aims to provide a formal mechanism for civil society organizations and beneficiaries to participate in shaping social protection policies and programs in Saint Lucia. This collaborative approach is expected to enhance the effectiveness and reach of social protection initiatives across the island.Participating organizations were invited to join the Social Protection Network (SPN) and support key initiatives such as the Koudmen Sent Lisi (KSL) program, spearheaded by the St Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF). Executive Director of the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), John Victorin, emphasizes that commitment from all stakeholders is essential to ensure the platform's sustainability. “It is my belief that if we are going to make an impact, we need to work together. This forum is absolutely integral to our efforts to provide social protection. While social protection broadly embraces the entire society, it targets the most vulnerable.”The Ministry is moving apace to engage and collaborate within the SPN to mainstream social protection, and will be rolling out an information campaign to highlight the latest developments in the social protection sector. This platform launch represents a crucial step in Saint Lucia's ongoing efforts to strengthen its social protection framework and better serve the needs of its most vulnerable citizens. ENDContacts:Anicia Antoine, Information Assistant (Ag.), Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5146, E: anicia.antoine@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

1 month ago

Welfare Unit Begins Six-Week Review amidst Capacity ConcernsCastries, September 16, 2024- With the Public Assistance and Child Disability programs of the Welfare Unit nearing full capacity, a critical six-week review process for grant beneficiaries has begun. The review, running from September 9, 2024, through to October 18, 2024, is crucial for beneficiaries to update their information and renew their cards, ensuring that only eligible people continue to receive support.Acting Deputy Director of the Welfare Unit, in the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment Jahn McFarlane, highlighted the growing challenge of managing the grant programs, noting that there is currently a significant wait list for new applicants. Families whose children are turning 21 and aging out of the Child Disability Program are urged to act, as these beneficiaries may no longer qualify, but may be eligible for public assistance to continue receiving support. McFarlane stressed the importance of beneficiaries visiting their local welfare offices to confirm their details and maintain access to essential services. “Well, at this point, we do have a bit of a waitlist. And if we're not able to remove persons, then it's natural that we're not able to add new applicants. And so it is a process whereby the child gets to 21, they remove from the program, perhaps they apply for PAP, and we're able to now please new children, new applicants on the program.” , noted Ms. McFarlane. During this review period, beneficiaries are required to provide identification, medical reports for those in need, proof of school attendance for children, and banking details to confirm active accounts. Failure to comply could result in a suspension of payments and a loss of access to essential services. “I would want to see that persons who do not come into the welfare office to have their documents renewed, there is a possibility that the funds will be suspended. Also, with that card, there are other services that they would be able to access at the hospitals, eye care services at blind welfare and so forth. And so if an expired card, they would not be able to access those services. So it is very important that persons come in with the required documents to update their files and to receive the new cards for the next period.”McFarlane reiterated that while the Welfare Unit is eager to welcome new recipients onto the program, it is essential to remove those who are no longer eligible to make room for others in need. The Welfare Unit is urging all beneficiaries to contact their local offices for assistance during this review period. ENDContacts:Anicia Antoine, Information Assistant (Ag.), Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5146, E: anicia.antoine@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

1 month ago

Ministry of Equity Applauds Julien Alfred’s Historic Win and National TriumphCastries, September 11, 2024 - Olympic champion Julien Alfred's historic achievements are hailed as a powerful testament to the adage, 'It takes a village to raise a child.' As Saint Lucia and the world continue to celebrate Alfred's remarkable accomplishments at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment Minister Hon. Joachim Henry stresses the vital lesson the star athlete's success embodies—the collective effort and support of an entire community. Minister Henry says Alfred's journey from the South Castries community of Ciceron to Olympic glory is a shining example of how unified support and commitment can propel a young talent to extraordinary heights. Surrounded by a network of individuals who recognized and nurtured her potential, Alfred's accomplishments are not solely her own but a reflection of the collective dedication of her village. The Empowerment Minister says Alfred's story reinforces the importance of investing in the youth and fostering supportive environments within every community. Minister Henry suggests that perhaps The Concept of the Village is more powerful than it is given credit for and that we need to harness its full potential. "Julien Alfred's return home is about accentuating that very point, that the village is alive, and we must use it. In the case of Julien Alfred, it may have started with people in the community identifying her talent, Twatenay providing support, and others coming on board to guide her; for example, she went to Jamaica, then a minister came to the Olympics provided support, and many others participated in putting this together." Julien Alfred made history by becoming Saint Lucia's first-ever Olympic Gold and Silver medalist. She secured Gold in the 100 meters with a new national record of 10.72 seconds and Silver in the 200 metres, propelling Saint Lucia into the global spotlight. Earlier this year, she also won Gold in the 60 metres at the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Championships, further cementing her legacy as an extraordinary athlete. The nation eagerly awaits Julien Alfred's return on September 24, 2024, to honor her outstanding achievements and celebrate the collective effort that made them possible. END Contacts:Anicia Antoine, Information Assistant (Ag.), Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5146, E: anicia.antoine@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

2 months ago

2024-2025 Community After-School Program Set To BeginCastries, September 05, 2024 – As students begin to return to the classroom, the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment is set to launch the 2024-2025 cycle of the Community After-School Program (CASP). Running from September 9, 2024, to March 31, 2025, the flagship initiative targets children from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them with academic support, life skills training, and psychosocial care during the after-school hours.Deputy Director of Social Transformation, Kendall Elva, highlighted the significance of the program, "The community after-school program is intended to foster social inclusion of children from disadvantaged backgrounds by way of exposing them to enrichment activities during after-school hours, with the aim of fostering their holistic development and ensuring that they become citizens who are productive, resilient, and responsible." The program will be implemented in 17 communities across the island, with activities ranging from arts and crafts to cooking and agriculture. Elva emphasized the importance of community involvement, noting the collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Gender Relations and Sustainable Development, faith-based organizations, and community leaders. To further ensure the well-being of the children, the program will include psychosocial support through professional counselors. "While participating in the program, the children would be provided with psychosocial support by way of exposing them to professional counselors who will implement a psychosocial plan to ensure that the serious eclectic psychosocial needs of the children have been addressed in a very comprehensive and sustainable manner." says the Deputy Director of Social Transformation, Kendall Elva. The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment’s After-School Program is committed to empowering vulnerable youth in Saint Lucia. It is focused on strengthening communities and fostering a united and resilient society. ENDContacts:Anicia Antoine, Information Assistant (Ag.), Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5146, E: anicia.antoine@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

2 months ago

Lightning Aquatics Swim Club Hands Over School Supplies to the Welfare Unit Castries, August 31, 2024 - The Lightning Aquatics Swim Club has again shown its commitment to the community, handing over school supplies to the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment, Welfare Unit. This gesture marks the 7th year the club has partnered with the Ministry to support children's educational needs under the Welfare Unit's care. The Welfare Unit will distribute the donated items, including school shoes, stationery, water bottles, and bags. It will also oversee their proper use to ensure they have the most significant possible impact. Head of the Welfare Unit, Jahn McFarlane, expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the Ministry of Equity, emphasizing the significance of the donation on the lives of vulnerable children. "An important aspect of social protection is risk reduction, so your contribution is significant to the children. By providing these school supplies, you directly contribute to reducing the risk of absenteeism, dropouts, and those with the challenges of not having sufficient resources to engage in learning fully, so we thank you, and we appreciate your thoughtfulness and generosity," said Ms. McFarlane. The Lightning Aquatics Swim Club hopes its actions will inspire other groups and organizations to contribute in any way they can to support the youth. Their continued partnership with the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, and Empowerment underscores the importance of community involvement in fostering educational success and social well-being. ENDContacts:Anicia Antoine, Information Assistant (Ag.), Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5146, E: anicia.antoine@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

2 months ago

A Call for Inclusion and Unity As Saint Lucia Observes Emancipation MonthCastries, August 28, 2024 – As Saint Lucia continues to commemorate August as Emancipation Month, a call to action for increased tolerance, unity, and inclusion across all societal sectors and groups has been issued.Minister for Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, Hon. Joachim Henry, has passionately called for a modern Saint Lucia embodying the spirit of emancipation. As the island marks Emancipation Month, Minister Henry said that society must reflect on its journey towards freedom and continue building a community where no sector or group feels marginalized.Minister Henry paid special tribute to the Rastafarian movement in his remarks, acknowledging their enduring role as guardians and champions of freedom and liberation. “The Rastafarian movement has long been at the forefront of advocating for freedom and justice. As we strive to create a truly emancipated society, we must ensure that every group, including Rastafari, feels a sense of belonging and is empowered to contribute to our nation’s progress.”The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment reaffirms its commitment to fostering a society where everyone, regardless of background, is recognized as equal and valued. Minister Henry emphasized, “In a truly emancipated society, every group—whether it be community organizations, faith-based groups, or cultural movements—has an important role in the social well-being and development of the country.”As Emancipation Month continues, the Ministry invites all Saint Lucians to join in the celebration and reflection, recognizing that collective strength lies in diversity and a shared commitment to building a more inclusive and just society. ENDContacts:Anicia Antoine, Information Assistant (Ag.), Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5146, E: anicia.antoine@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

2 months ago

BTC Residents Graduate from the BJ-YES ProgramCastries, August 21, 2024 – 105 young participants, including a cohort of residents from the Boys Training Centre (BTC), graduated from the fourth annual Botham Jean - Youth Exploring Skills (BJ-YES) program. The graduation ceremony at the National Skills Development Centre on August 16, 2024, celebrated the achievements of the dedicated young people who participated in the four-week skills training program.The BTC residents participated in Electrical Installation, Desktop Publishing, Bread, Cake, and pastry-making classes, gaining hands-on experience and valuable knowledge for their personal development and future success. This initiative aligns with the vision of the Boys Training Centre as the island's sole youth rehabilitative institution, committed to offering care, intervention, and life-skills education within a safe and supportive environment to empower its residents to become productive and positive contributors to society.Manager of the BTC Leanna Wallace, expressed gratitude to the Botham Jean Foundation for the opportunity provided to the boys of the Centre, “This venture was significant for the boys of the Boys Training Centre as they would have gained knowledge in various skill sections that they would use in future. The boys were excited about the activity and looked forward to attending that camp. They learned a lot; they were very excited to explain to the staff what they learned. It was a venture of development; it was a venture that would help the boys in the long run. Those skills that they got from the Botham Jean camp, will help bring them to higher places.” The BJ-YES program also offered training in Hairdressing and Nail Care, providing a broad spectrum of skills to meet the diverse interests and career aspirations of the young participants, underscoring the wide-ranging approach of the Botham Jean Foundation and NSDCS's commitment to youth development, as they continue to equip the next generation with the tools needed to thrive. END Contacts:Anicia Antoine, Information Assistant (Ag.), Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5146, E: anicia.antoine@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice & EmpowermentT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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