Vandalism of Statue Honoring Mary Ann McCracken Sparks Outrage
A statue honoring Mary Ann McCracken, a Belfast-born anti-slavery campaigner, has suffered damage that is believed to be the result of vandalism. The incident has sparked widespread concern and calls for a full investigation.
The Irish language portion of the plaque beneath the statue was partially torn away and left hanging from the base. This act of destruction has been met with strong condemnation from local councillors and community members alike.
The damage was discovered and reported on Friday morning. The bronze statue, which was installed in 2024, was unveiled on International Women’s Day alongside a statue of Winifred Carney. Together, they commemorate two prominent female figures in Irish nationalism. These statues mark the first non-royal women to receive such recognition on the grounds of City Hall. They also represent the first new memorials added to the area since the Operation Banner Memorial in 2013.
Sinn Féin Councillor Ronan McLaughlin described the damage as “disgraceful.” He stated that he has spoken with council officials and called for a full investigation into the incident. Additionally, he requested that the matter be referred to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
“Those responsible must be held accountable for their actions to ensure this intolerant behaviour is not repeated,” said Mr. McLaughlin. “Sinn Féin is calling for repairs to be carried out as quickly as possible so the statue can continue to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.”
He further emphasized that it is “even more concerning” that the damage appears to have been specifically targeted at the section inscribed in Gaeilge (Irish).
SDLP Councillor Gary McKeown also expressed his dismay over the incident. He called the reported vandalism “appalling” and noted that it will likely shock people across Belfast and beyond.
“Belfast has an embarrassingly low number of statues dedicated to women, so the unveiling of this one in the grounds of City Hall last year was particularly welcome,” said Mr. McKeown. “This makes it more shocking that it appears that someone has attacked it.”
He highlighted the significance of Mary Ann McCracken’s contributions to the city, especially her work as a social reformer and opponent of slavery. “The principles she stood for remain relevant two centuries later,” he added.
A spokesperson for Belfast City Council confirmed that the council is aware of the situation and is investigating the circumstances. They also stated that the sign will be replaced “as soon as possible.”
Background on Mary Ann McCracken
Mary Ann McCracken was a Belfast-born businesswoman, social reformer, anti-slavery campaigner, and supporter of the United Irishmen. Born in 1770 into a liberal Presbyterian family of Scottish and French Huguenot descent, she ran a successful muslin business and led the Women’s Abolitionary Committee in Belfast during the peak of the anti-slavery movement.
She also established the Ladies Committee of the Belfast Charitable Movement and was dedicated to helping the city’s poor from a young age. A founding member of the Belfast Harp Society, McCracken was the sister of Henry Joy McCracken, a United Irishmen founder, and cared for his daughter after his execution in 1798. She died in 1866.
