Mary Ann McCracken Statue Vandalised at Belfast City Hall, Police Investigate

The statue of Mary Ann McCracken, an anti-slavery campaigner and social activist, located outside Belfast City Hall, was vandalized, with the Irish language section of the plaque partially torn away. The damage was discovered in March 2025 and is believed to have been an intentional act targeting the Gaeilge inscription. The statue, unveiled on International Women’s Day in 2024 alongside that of Winifred Carney, marked the first non-royal women to be commemorated at City Hall. Sinn Féin Councillor Ronan McLaughlin condemned the damage as disgraceful and intolerant, calling for a full investigation and the involvement of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to hold those responsible accountable. SDLP Councillor Gary McKeown also denounced the vandalism as disgusting and emphasized the importance of repairing the statue quickly, highlighting McCracken's lasting legacy as a social reformer and opponent of slavery. Belfast City Council has acknowledged the issue and is working to replace the damaged panel promptly.