Cr Sarah Ndiaye , Mullumbimby
Regarding Fast Buck$ and the Editors note (10 June 2020).
There are no special names for him, and there is nothing funny about it. For three and a half years John Anderson has intentionally made a mockery of my surname at every Council meeting he’s attended.
My surname is steeped in history, my history, and that of many others. It was the name I took when I married my husband in 1997 and he left his home to come and live in Australia; the surname our two children have and my three stepchildren in Senegal.
My husband died in 2002 and I have kept it in honour of him and my extended family. It’s a little tricky to say, but most decent, respectful people manage after one or two tries. Every time he makes fun of my name it hurts me deeply, it makes my blood boil and I cannot believe anyone could find that funny. I am appalled.
John Anderson’s actions are reminiscent of an Australia where people who came from overseas felt they had to change their names to Mick, Jenny and John so Aussies could say them. In his commentary he talked about me leaving while he was making a speech. If he’s at the lectern, I know he can’t accost me as I go to the bathroom – which he has done many times.
His behaviour has been nothing but shameful and needs to be called out; always playing the person not the ball. After more than three-and-a-half years his perpetual gaslighting provoked a mild retort. This paper giving him so much oxygen does everyone in this community a disservice.
Ed Note: It was our understanding that ‘Blah Blah’ referred to the fact Fast Buck$ felt you spoke at too much length, not that it referred to your surname. The heading you provided in your letter regarding Fast Buck$ was titled Fartbuck$.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
