THE MAYOR of Redditch issued a public apology at the full council meeting on Tuesday night for a series of social media posts in which she criticised black, Asian and LGBTQ+ communities.
Complaints were made about Coun Sue Eacock’s for remarks on X, including one where she suggested there were too many black performers at the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee concert.
Among the most offensive comments was a post where she praised former MP Enoch Powell for his infamous Rivers of Blood speech, saying: “55 years later his words have come true.”
Since that was published Coun Eacock deleted her X account, but many screenshots are still circling online.
The Labour group brought forward a vote of no confidence two weeks ago, saying Coun Sue Eacock’s comments online were validating division and hate in the community.
However the council refused the vote, with Reform leader in Redditch Coun Nic Pioli standing by the mayor, saying the increasing criticism from opposition councillors and residents was a ‘witch hunt’.
At the meeting, the Labour group, as well as the organisers of Redditch PRIDE tabled questions to the leader regarding her conduct before coming to office.
Mayor Eacock addressed her behaviour, saying she was sorry for the hurt of offence she caused, and that the posts were made during a difficult time in her life.
“I accept I was not as careful with my words as I should have been – coming into public office has been a steep learning curve.
“I understand now, in a way that I perhaps did not appreciate before, how much words matter and how they can land with people.
“Throughout my life I’ve always lived in and worked with diverse, multicultural communities – and I’ve always tried to treat people with respect and dignity, whatever their background.
“If any of my posts gave a different impression, I’m sorry for that – because it is not who I am, nor how I serve, nor how I wish to be.”
Speaking to the Standard Coun Sharon Harvey, the Labour group leader, said” We welcome Coun Eacock’s apology for offence caused by her social media posts. It is regrettable that this apology has only been issued following sustained public pressure.
“Now the mayor must follow this up with action to show that she is willing and able to represent all residents, regardless of colour, sexuality, gender, race or religion.
“I’d like to thank members of Pride CIC who bravely spoke out at full council in order to ensure voices of minorities were heard.”
