Scotland’s First Black MP Honoured in West Lothian
Scotland’s first Black Member of Parliament, Peter McLagan, has been commemorated with a special plaque in West Lothian. McLagan, who was elected to represent Linlithgowshire in 1865, served until 1893, becoming West Lothian’s second longest-serving MP after Tam Dalyell.
The plaque, now permanently displayed in the council chambers at West Lothian Civic Centre, was unveiled during Black History Month in October. Alongside the plaque, special interpretation panels recount McLagan’s remarkable life story.
Provost Cathy Muldoon expressed excitement about the lasting tribute to Peter McLagan in West Lothian. She hopes that this recognition will inspire more people to learn about McLagan’s life and achievements, as well as encourage residents from minority backgrounds in West Lothian to consider standing for election in their area.
Silence Chihuri, co-chair of the West Lothian Legacy of Chattel Slavery Working Group, highlighted the importance of celebrating Peter McLagan as a way to acknowledge the contributions of Black individuals to the development of West Lothian.
The unveiling of the plaque marks a significant moment in recognising and honouring the historical figure of Peter McLagan, paving the way for greater inclusivity and representation in West Lothian’s political landscape.
**Summary:**
Scotland’s first Black MP, Peter McLagan, was honoured in West Lothian with a special plaque unveiled during Black History Month. The tribute aims to celebrate McLagan’s life and achievements while encouraging diversity in political representation. This commemoration serves as a recognition of Black contributions to West Lothian’s history and underscores the importance of inclusivity in the community’s political sphere.