Mayor speaks at annual Congressional Black Caucus Conference

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, has been in Washington, D.C. in recent days, where she was invited to speak at the 53rd Annual Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Legislative Conference.

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 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.

Speaking after the conference, Mayor Seenoi Barr 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.”

The CBCF’s mission to advance the global Black community by cultivating leadership and informing policy resonates strongly with Mayor Seenoi Barr’s vision for inclusive economic growth. She emphasised, “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.”