Belizean Community in Birmingham

Where they come from

Belize lies on the Caribbean coast of Central America, south of Mexico, and is home to the second largest barrier reef in the world and ancient Maya ruins. It was a British colony, known as British Honduras, until 1981. English is the official language. Belizeans in Britain include students, professionals and families.

The community in numbers

At the 2021 Census, out of a city population of 1,144,919, 329 people living in the city had been born in Central America, a group that includes Belize.

Working for Birmingham

Belizean residents work in fields such as healthcare, education, the armed forces and business. Belize has close ties with Britain, and some Belizeans have served in the British Army, while others study at British universities.

Birmingham is one of the youngest and most diverse cities in Europe, and its progress has always depended on people who chose to make it home. Its hospitals, schools and universities, its building sites, workshops, warehouses and kitchens all rely on skills brought from around the world. The Belizean community adds its own share to that effort, and takes pride in giving back to the city that welcomed it.

Culture and community life

The culture of the Garifuna people, with its music and dance, is recognised by UNESCO, and Garifuna Settlement Day on 19 November is a national holiday. Rice and beans with stewed chicken is the national dish, and punta music is played at celebrations.

Birmingham's strength lies in its variety, and the Belizean community is a welcome part of it. As the city continues to grow and change, that contribution will remain part of the story of a place that has always looked forward.