Origin of the Flag of Belize

Beyond its stunning landscapes, Belize offers an inspiring history of nationalism, reflected in one of its most treasured symbols: the Belize flag. During the festive month of September, flags can be seen in every corner of the country as locals beam with pride. As Independence Day approaches, let's delve into how the vibrant red (scarlet), royal blue (azure) and white flags came to be!

The Making of a National Flag

In the 1960s, the People's United Party, under the leadership of national hero the Honorable George Cadle Price, used a blue flag with a white circle to signify the party's revolution. However, when the independence movement received international recognition from the United Nations to admit Belize to the World of Nations, questions arose about whether the flag adequately represented the country.

As independence approached, the Committee on National Symbols completed the list of national symbols, which included the flag of Belize. The committee called on local residents to submit ideas for the design of the new flag in an open competition. From 80 entries, two civil servants - Mr Everal Waite and Mr Ines Sanchez - were chosen for their design. Both men based their design on the nationalist flag (blue and white flag), adding two red stripes along the length at the top and bottom, as well as a coat of arms that includes:

A wreath of 50 leaves known as " contempt of the land" surrounds the coat of arms, symbolizing the year 1950, when the Belizeans began the struggle for independence.

The mahogany tree is a symbol of the timber industry

The ship is a symbol of maritime history

Mestizo man on the left with an ax

Afro-Belizean man on the right with an oar - the men in the flag represent the ethnic diversity and historical contributions of their people.

A scroll with the words “Sub Umbra Floreo”, which in Latin means “Under the shadow I bloom.”

On September 21, 1981, the British flag was lowered at Government House, and The Belize flag flew over Belize City to the music of the national anthem, O Land of the Free, written by Samuel Haynes, as a sign of a new beginning for the country. The flag is more than a national symbol; it represents history, culture and unity.

Here are some fun facts about the Belize flag:

The flag must be raised before 6 am and removed until 6 p.m. If you leave it overnight, the lights should illuminate the flag so that it can be seen.
Flags should not be used as a cape, bandana, etc.
No flag should must be torn or with holes. The only proper way to dispose of a worn flag is to have a flag ceremony and burn it. In addition, some people keep flag grommets as souvenirs.

Source: travelbelize