Northern Ireland election posters placed on bonfires
Northern Ireland has been immersed for a long time in a religious and political conflict that has resulted in violence and death. As part of this, last week’s election posters of Anna Lo and Martina Anderson were placed on bonfires in Bangor and Carrickfergus. Bonfires are lit by unionists across Northern Ireland on the night of 11 July as part of annual Battle of the Boyne commemorations.
Ulster Unionist leader Mike Nesbitt spoke about this action, calling for respect for different identities: “It is perfectly possible to celebrate one’s cultural identity without having to resort to burning election posters or seeking to offend anyone else. I have previously called for actions to be lawful and peaceful, but it is equally important to stress that they must also be respectful.”
Ms Lo also spoke about the topic: “Burning Tricolors and posters of politicians is just beyond the pale. It’s mutual respect. I have no problem with people celebrating the Twelfth with bonfires and I know they want their culture to be respected and I think that’s the right thing to do, but really if they want people to respect their culture they need to respect other people’s culture and religion as well.”
How do you feel about burning posters? Is this a legitimate form of protest or a violation of someone else’s rights?