Lilian Seenoi-Barr, the first black mayor of Derry and Strabane city, has come out to clarify sentiments about her refugee status in Northern Ireland.
Speaking in an interview with Citizen TV, Seenoi explained that she acquired the status after proving that her life and that of her son were in danger, and therefore she needed to go out of the country.
In the United Kingdom (UK), she said, there are different immigration status which are accorded to individuals based on reasons for one leaving their home country.
“In the UK there are different immigration status, and they are rewarded based on various for different reasons. I was awarded the status because I had to prove that my life and that of my son were in danger,” Seenoi said.
PHOTO/Lilian Seenoi
She added that her migration process was inspired by people who saw the threats she had received during community projects in Kenya.
Seenoi’s Installation Meeting
Lady Mayor Lilian Seenoi -Bar was installed as Mayor of Derry City and Strabane at a special Council meeting on Monday, June 3, 2024.
Lilian who rrived in Derry 14 years ago as a refugee from Kenya said it was an honor to become first black mayor of Derry city.
During her days in Kenya, she co-founded the Maasai Education discovery -brides Rescue project which was aimed at rescuing young girls from early forced marriages and forced genital mutilation (FGM) in the northern part of the country.
The initiatives, however, exposed her to risks including threats by some members of the Maa Community who were opposed to change hence her decision to flee to Nothern Ireland.
Also Read: Meet Ledama’s Sister Installed as North Ireland’s First Black Mayor
Lilian Seenoi Plan for Derry &Strabane City
After her installation as Mayor, Lilian said that she is committed to fight for inclusivity in the cities by establishing the NorthWest immigrant’s forum that aims to address issues faced by immigrants.
The forum addresses issues faced by all immigrants who go to occupy and make a life in the Northern Ireland.
Also Read: Lilian Seenoi-Barr: Kenyan Elected as First Black Mayor in UK
In addition, she explained that she is determined to create an inclusive society where everyone feels part of her leadership.
In her quest to be a mayor for all, Lilian Seenoi-Barr explained that she aims to fight for inclusivity and political stability to attract investors and establish a sustainable economic eco-system.
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PHOTO/Lilian Seenoi
