RACIST social media commentary about last weekend’s Sierra Leonean Outing has been shut down by the event’s upbeat organiser.
In the wake of the Southend seafront festival, some users took to social media to post negative and abusive sentiments about the attendees, the vast majority of whom are part of the British Sierra Leonean community.
Michael Mansaray, who has organised the annual event for 17 years, said the views expressed online do not represent those held by most Southend residents.
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“I’m trying not to think about it,” he said.
“We’re a loving community and just want to celebrate each other regardless of our background and are all a part of the same fantastic soup.
“The majority of people in Southend love our event, we love Southend and we are not paying any attention to the negative voices.”
Several social media accounts appeared to use the event to suggest a changing racial demographic in the UK and attracted dozens of racist and offensive comments.
Matt Dent, Labour councillor for culture, music, business and tourism, said: “The Sierra Leoneans come to our beach every year.
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"They have a good time, they cause no trouble, and they clean up after themselves to a better standard than some of our other visitors.
“It's a delight to have them, and I'm very pleased that they recognise the charms of Southend's seafront.
“We look forward to welcoming them back again next year.”
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