Frances Black

Frances Black portrait

Senator Frances Black is a politician and advocate dedicated to social justice, human rights, and mental health reform.

First elected to Seanad Éireann in 2016 as Ireland's first female Independent Senator from the panel system, she was re-elected in 2020 and again in 2025, continuing her unwavering commitment to representing the vulnerable and marginalised.

A passionate champion for human rights, Frances introduced the Control of Economic Activity (Occupied Territories) Bill in 2018, landmark legislation that would ban the import and sale of goods and services from illegal Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Grounded in international law and supported across party lines, the Bill reflects Ireland's longstanding commitment to Palestinian rights and a rules-based international order. Frances continues to campaign actively for its passage and has brought it before the Seanad across multiple terms.

She is a leading voice on mental health, chairing the Oireachtas Committee on Mental Health from 2020 to 2022 and campaigning for increased support and funding. She also recently introduced Local Government (Support for Elected Members) Bill 2024, which would bolster support for local councillors across Ireland.

Beyond her legislative work, she founded the RISE Foundation to support families impacted by a loved one's addiction. A renowned Irish singer and activist, Frances combines her artistic talents with her advocacy to inspire change. Her relentless pursuit of social justice and equality makes her a powerful voice for accountability and a beacon of hope for a fairer and more compassionate Ireland.

Opening words & video messages

Friday,

11:00-11:45

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Speakers

Ronnie Barkan

Ghada Karmi

Haim Bresheeth-Žabner

Ronnie Kasrils

Roibeard Mac an Bheatha

Abubaker Abed

Nadia Greenspan

Andrew Feinstein

José Nivoi

Ramzy Baroud

Sonya Cotton

Mira Hammad

Jérôme Legavre

Lubna Speitan

Jude Farrell

Francesca Albanese

Camille Lévy Sarfati

Ilan Pappé

Hadas Emma Kedar

More to come

John Reynolds

Wieland Hoban