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How a former Kenyan refugee became the first black mayor of Northern Ireland

From a small village in Narok, Kenya, to the prestigious Guildhall in Londonderry, Lilian Seenoi-Barr has broken barriers and made history as the first black mayor of Northern Ireland.

Her journey from being a refugee to becoming a prominent figure in local politics is both inspiring and remarkable.

Lilian Seenoi-Barr arrived in Londonderry 14 years ago, seeking refuge and a better life. Little did she know that she would one day hold the highest civic office in the city. Her installment as mayor of Derry City and Strabane is not only a personal achievement but a significant milestone for diversity and inclusion in Northern Ireland.

How a former Kenyan refugee became the first black mayor of Northern Ireland
How a former Kenyan refugee became the first black mayor of Northern Ireland. Whoownsafrica.com

At the special council meeting where she received the mayoral chain of office, a diverse crowd of over 300 people gathered to witness this momentous occasion. Among them were her family and friends, a delegation of Kenyan political representatives, and members of various ethnic minority groups from across the island of Ireland. It was a display of unity and celebration of diversity.

Ms. Seenoi-Barr’s rise to prominence is a testament to her dedication and hard work. Being a councillor for the Foyleside ward since 2021, she has consistently advocated for the rights of marginalized communities and worked towards making the city a more inclusive and welcoming place for all residents.

Her leadership and commitment to public service have not gone unnoticed, and her election as mayor is a well-deserved recognition of her efforts.

How a former Kenyan refugee became the first black mayor of Northern Ireland
How a former Kenyan refugee became the first black mayor of Northern Ireland. Whoownsafrica.com

As she stood before the chamber, reflecting on her journey from Narok to Derry, Ms. Seenoi-Barr expressed her gratitude and humility. She acknowledged the challenges she had faced as a refugee and the obstacles she had overcome to reach this point.

Her story is one of resilience, courage, and determination – qualities that have defined her path to success.

In a time where diversity and representation are more important than ever, Lilian Seenoi-Barr’s appointment as the first black mayor of Northern Ireland sends a powerful message of hope and progress. It shows that regardless of background or origin, anyone can achieve their dreams and make a positive impact in their community.

Her story is an inspiration to all, reminding us that diversity is not just a buzzword but a strength that should be celebrated and embraced.

A fall-out over the mayoral selection process, which led to two party colleagues resigning, and racist abuse including death threats followed the announcement of Ms Seenoi-Barr being chosen for the role.

How a former Kenyan refugee became the first black mayor of Northern Ireland
How a former Kenyan refugee became the first black mayor of Northern Ireland. Whoownsafrica.com

However, she bravely spoke out against the “anti-immigrant sentiment” that spread on social media, calling it a reminder of the issues faced by the community but not reflective of the true nature of the district.

She expressed gratitude for the warmth and kindness she has experienced in Derry and vowed to work hard for the entire community, promising to be accessible and lead with hope.

Ms Seenoi-Barr emphasized the importance of inclusivity and unity in building a prosperous and vibrant future for Derry City and Strabane District Council, urging the community to embrace their differences and work together towards positive change.

Her message of unity and progressive change received overwhelming support, and she expressed gratitude for the trust and support of the community as they embarked on this journey together.

Who is Lilian Seenoi-Barr?

How a former Kenyan refugee became the first black mayor of Northern Ireland
How a former Kenyan refugee became the first black mayor of Northern Ireland. Whoownsafrica.com

Lilian Seenoi-Barr is a trailblazing politician and advocate for marginalized communities, making history as the first black politician elected to public office in Northern Ireland.

Originally from Kenya, she arrived in Derry in 2010 as a refugee with her son Brian, who has autism. Before her move, she worked tirelessly in her native country to empower women and girls from the Massai tribe, challenging harmful traditions like early marriage and female genital mutilation.

Seenoi-Barr’s journey to becoming a political figure was not without challenges. She faced threats and backlash for her activism in Kenya, which ultimately led her to seek refuge in Northern Ireland.

How a former Kenyan refugee became the first black mayor of Northern Ireland
How a former Kenyan refugee became the first black mayor of Northern Ireland. Whoownsafrica.com

Her personal experiences as a refugee and a mother to a child with special needs inspired her to establish the North West Migrants Forum in 2012, a charity that provides support to migrants and asylum seekers in the region.

In addition to her work with the forum, Seenoi-Barr has been actively involved in advocating for social justice and equality. She played a key role in organizing the Black Lives Matter protests in Guildhall Square in June 2020, amplifying the voices of the black community and calling for an end to systemic racism.

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