Senator Jeff Baron has condemned a post on his sister’s Facebook page, insisting that he did not support discriminatory or racist comments.

In a statement issued yesterday morning, the Minister of National Security said he was outraged by the post that is now making the rounds on social media.

The post on Marisa Baron’s page caused a storm of controversy, with dozens voicing their disgust through various media.

“Last evening, I was alerted to a post on my sister’s Facebook page and immediately called her to express my concern and disapproval of language and content on what was posted,” stated Mr Baron.

“I was outraged. I cannot control words and actions of others. However, I can control my reaction to them — so I’ve quickly concluded that the best way for me to address this publicly is to be straightforward.

“I do not condone this type of divisive, hurtful language. I do not support discriminatory and/or racist comments. It has no place in our discourse, it’s not in my heart to feel this way.”

The Facebook post said: “I have never in my life wanted to just walk up and smack a stranger. It’s a shame that I am forced to keep my mouth shut, and smile at such ignorant, racist, fearmongering pieces of trash because of who I am.

“Well, not right now . . . you black people may think you run this island. Trust me, your stupidity is laughable. Just because you went into the bushes and came out with your inbred children ‘to get the votes’ does not mean you ‘run this country’.

“To make the playing field even, I will now talk to and about black people as they do me, that white girl . . . OK . . . what year is it? Ignorant f**ks!”

A subsequent message on the same page claimed the account was hacked, adding an apology before the page was deleted. But this was not before a frenzy of sharing and commenting ensued on social media, including a reposting of the original post sent to Ms Baron’s employer.

Ms Baron’s apology read: “An apology is in order. Just came on FB to some pretty unfriendly messages in response to a vile message posted on my page.

“If you know me, you’d know I’m not racist, but clearly someone wanted everyone to think I am.

“Note to self, learn to log off.

“Sorry for the post that came from my page, and to everyone it upset. This page is being deleted, as I’m not sure who else I’m apparently sharing my page with.”

In his statement, Mr Baron added that he was a Bermudian who cherishes the island’s diversity.

“I am a father who teaches strong Bermudian values to my son, through actions and through words. I am a candidate and have a campaign that does not perpetuate — nor does it tolerate — divisive rhetoric.

“Lastly, and most importantly to me, this statement is not submitted as a result of a request or demand from anyone.

“I am submitting this personally because it is the right thing to do and I will continue to address any divisiveness from anyone in order to strengthen Bermuda.”

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