SUE’S VIEW Sue Vincent-Jones gives her view on Barry’s #BLM protest

SUE’S VIEW

Welcome to my world, a beautiful place where life is always adventurous, sometimes surreal, occasionally unconventional but never ever (ever!) boring. I have the pictures…and the scars, to prove it. ue’s View, is my regular reflection of a life lived large as an award-winning activist, dedicated arts lover, and voracious community supporter – often being a very visible voice for my home town when it struggles to find its own. S much being kept alive, thanks to those who stood up strongly in support. We so totally get that staying silent, standing by, or just sitting at home, is not the answer that’s needed now – real action, real activism, real visibility, and real change is. For me though community is not solely I can’t help but love my rough, tough, edgy, just anyone living in the same place either. kind, sweet, generous, Gavin and Stacey It also means a group of like-minded synonymous birthplace with a passion. And people who share the same interests, who I would never lay my (probably leopard stick together through a strong sense of print) hat anywhere else. Long considered a credible voice of the community, I use my platform to reflect back to the town, the topics talked about, the tough times faced, and the harsh truths we need to tackle - often locally, sometimes Writing as Mrs SVJ, Sue VincentJones, is a top trained journo and well-travelled woman, who blogs about all things Barry, and the wider world, through the eyes of a quirky, unity, and often, the deep desire to make a difference. #BlackLives Matter did this for me on so many levels. And I’ve also seen it so many other times in my neighbourhood, in my LGBT life, and my arts world of film, nationally, and occasionally internationally. and queer girl done good. music, and theatre - where true activists Sometimes I even shout too – if only to and allies keep our communities cohesive stress the need to speak up and speak out our Black Lives Matter protest beautifully and connected. against the unfairness and injustice that – socially distanced, properly, and We can all make a difference - and I hope has corroded our communities, and scarred peacefully…respect. my voice of the community column does some of our very own residents. Seeing the scores of rallying residents some of that for you. Never was this more magnified that gather on King Square to show their Thank you for having me. in the recent resurgence of the stand against racism. The #BlackLives Matter solidarity with our brave Barrians who have fought, both slyly subtle, and boldly Speak soon movement burst into Barry just as we were blatant, racism all their lives was instantly Mrs SVJ in the middle of struggling through the inspiring and undoubtedly uplifting. #BarryBoldestBlogger lonely Lockdown of an isolation nation. Still a long way to go, I know, but from a (c) mrssvj.co.uk And, what can I say, my birthplace did pivotal moment in time, the vibe is very Keep up with Sue’s monthly views online.