Myrna Manzanares

Activist Type

Human Rights

Myrna Manzanares, a Belizean writer and activist, was a tireless advocate for the preservation of Belizean Creole culture and racial justice. Through her extensive oral history work and involvement in various organizations, including the National AIDS Task Force and the Belize National Library Service Board, she left an indelible mark on her community. Manzanares also championed women's rights, substance abuse prevention, and HIV/AIDS awareness. Her contributions were recognized with honors such as the Member of the Order of the British Empire and the Artists Emeritus title by Belize's National Institute of Culture and History, cementing her legacy as a beacon of cultural pride and social progress in Belize.

Artwork by

Matthew McDaniel

Myrna was a bold, influential, and powerful essence in color and vibrance; thus reflected through an aural body of golden waves radiating over a sea of weathered red hues. The color choice is directly pulled from the visual representation of women’s rights, HIV/AIDs prevention, sexual awareness, and various other movements that Myrna was involved in. Posed to reflect her matriarchal stature – a mother to not only Belizean Creole culture but to all political and social standings she embodied. Textures and stylization capture the Kriol fashion she proudly wore, complemented by a crown set atop her head by her people. She sits proudly as ambassador, addressing the viewer directly with her gaze.

Belize

Capital

Belmopan

Founded

September 21, 1981

Demonym

Belizean