A “disgraceful act of vandalism” has targeted the statue honoring pioneering nurse Mary Seacole, who was born in Jamaica.
The vandalism of the monument outside of Guy’s and St. Thomas’s Hospital in south London is being looked into by the Met Police.
Graffiti was sprayed on the plinth of the statue and covered in red and orange paint.
The public is being asked to contribute to the cost of repairs. As Vauxhall and Camberwell Green MP Florence Eshalomi stated: “This is a disgraceful act of vandalism. After so much work to ensure, Mary Seacole’s legacy is honored.”
“I am honored to have this right in the middle of my district. Where so many people come to see the statue and gardens.”
The memorial statue is believed to be the first in the UK to honor a named black woman. The Mary Seacole Trust raised funds to have it installed in 2016.
The Met said it was not being treated as such, but investigations ongoing. The Mary Seacole Trust stated it thought the damage was racially motivated.
Trevor Sterling, chair of the Trust, stated: “This demonstrates the abundance of ignorance and the lack of education among individuals, who have racial motivations.”
“We need to have a better conversation and understanding of. What it means to be British and what it means to be British, as well as the contribution of people from different backgrounds over time. Which is what has made Britain unique.
Mary Seacole is a national icon for the NHS, diversity and social justice. Her contributions have had a significant impact on this nation. With any luck, this will draw attention, to the need to improve the curriculum regarding the true nature of British identity and what it means to be British.
Brit News Analysis: The Memorial Statue under attack. These acts of vandalism show the ill mentality of the suspect. Any person from any society or religion if did extraordinary for humanity, should be welcoming. Rather than the spread of hate or divides.
