Derry Mayor Lilian Seenoi Barr Vows to Continue Duties Despite Racist Online Abuse
Derry City and Strabane Mayor, Lilian Seenoi Barr, has become the target of a sustained online harassment campaign involving racist abuse and disinformation. The abuse, which has escalated in recent weeks, follows the imprisonment of a man last month for sending abusive messages to Seenoi Barr online. The mayor, who made history last year as the first black mayor in Northern Ireland, has described the experience as "deeply distressing" and has reported the incidents to the police. Police have confirmed they are investigating the online posts and commentary, working to identify potential offences and ensuring the mayor’s safety.
SDLP leader Claire Hanna has condemned the online attacks as a "deliberate campaign of disinformation and smearing" with "implied and very direct racist undertones". Speaking alongside Seenoi Barr at a press conference in Derry’s Guildhall, Hanna expressed solidarity with the mayor and emphasized the importance of combating racism and injustice. Seenoi Barr, a Kenyan-born Maasai woman, has called Derry her home and remains resolute in her commitment to serving the community. She believes the attacks are rooted in prejudice and stem from her ethnicity and background.
Seenoi Barr expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support she has received, demonstrating the city’s rejection of racism and division. She reiterated her determination to fulfill her mayoral duties, undeterred by the malicious campaign. "I will not be deterred by name-calling, the smearing of my character and certainly not by online attacks by those who offer nothing constructive to society," she stated. The mayor emphasized that she has earned her position and will continue to represent the diverse community of Derry and Strabane.
Police have assured the public that they are taking the matter seriously. Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney, Derry City and Strabane area commander, stated that abuse, harassment, or criminality directed at elected representatives is unacceptable and will be thoroughly investigated. Police are working closely with the council to provide support and reassurance to Seenoi Barr, ensuring she feels safe in her workplace and can carry out her duties without fear of intimidation. The investigation is ongoing, and police are reviewing evidence to identify any potential offences.
The online abuse targeting Seenoi Barr highlights the persistent challenges of racism and online harassment faced by public figures, particularly those from minority backgrounds. The mayor’s resilience and commitment to serving her community despite these attacks send a powerful message of defiance against prejudice. The incident also underscores the need for continued vigilance and action to address online hate speech and create a safer and more inclusive online environment. Seenoi Barr’s case serves as a stark reminder that racism remains a pervasive issue, requiring ongoing efforts from individuals, communities, and law enforcement to combat.
This incident has sparked wider discussions about the safety and security of elected officials, especially in the face of increasing online hostility. The support offered by the police and the SDLP highlights the importance of collaborative efforts to protect those in public service from harassment and intimidation. The case also serves as a reminder of the crucial role social media platforms play in addressing hate speech and ensuring their platforms are not used to spread misinformation and incite violence. The incident has underscored the need for stricter measures and greater accountability from social media companies to combat online abuse and protect vulnerable individuals.