Derry Mayor addresses US Congressional Black Caucus in Washington
The Mayor of Derry and Strabane has said she was "honoured" to address the prestigious Congressional Black Caucus conference in Washington this week.
SDLP councillor Lillian Seenoi-Barr, who made history this year when she became the first ever black Mayor in Northern Ireland, was one of a number of international delegates invited to speak at the US event.
Afterwards, she said she put forward the case for "economic development for Derry and Strabane" and "racial equity" during the conference.
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The theme of this year’s event, ‘From Vision to Victory: Amplifying Black Voices’ focused on critical issues impacting education, health, technology, civic engagement, and equity. One of the key topics of discussion was the growing attack on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The CBCF Annual Legislative Conference, held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, is described as a premier gathering of policymakers, thought leaders, activists, and community members dedicated to advancing the global Black community. The agenda included a National Town Hall on equal economic opportunity, as well as diverse panels aimed at securing and sustaining progress for Black people across the globe.
Mayor Seenoi Barr was among a number of international delegates invited to speak at this high-profile conference. In addition to addressing key issues affecting the Black community, this year’s discussions challenged rising authoritarianism, global anti-Blackness, and explored pioneering legislative and policy solutions.
In the lead-up to the conference, Mayor Seenoi Barr participated in a series of meetings with officials from the U.S. State Department, the Irish Embassy in Washington, and various members of Congress. These engagements provided an opportunity to advocate for economic opportunities in Derry City and Strabane district, with a focus on tourism, trade, and investment.
Afterwards, the Derry Mayor said: “I was honoured to be invited to address the Annual Legislative Conference. It was a fantastic platform to highlight Derry and Strabane’s efforts in promoting racial equity and inclusion, and to showcase some of the incredible work being done to connect communities and address inequality.
“I also had the opportunity to engage with some visionary academics, politicians, policymakers, and potential investors, making the case for Derry’s economic growth through tourism and trade.”
She continued: “As someone who believes in shared growth and economic prosperity for everyone, I know that by supporting the most vulnerable in society, we ensure benefits for all. I look forward to building on the connections made during this trip to further our goals of racial equity and economic development for Derry and Strabane."
"The Annual Legislative Conference is more than just a conference; it is a catalyst for change," said a CBCF spokesperson. "Our mission is to uplift, empower, and advance the Black community by cultivating leadership, informing policy, and educating the public."
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