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Racism, Education and Politics

The 70th Anniversary of Windrush

The 70th anniversary of the arrival of the SS Empire Windrush was marked in 2018 by hundreds of events, exhibitions, performances and publications across the country.  These celebrations were a tribute to the monumental contribution the Windrush Generation has made to the political, economic and cultural fabric of Britain.

 

A5 flyer showing a black and white photograph of a lady of Carribean heritage standing with her foot on a sofa.
Flyer for the Theatre Production: Sorrel & Black Cake

Facing hardship and discrimination at every turn, they strove to build new lives for themselves and their descendants.

They are true pioneers – the founders of Britain's black communities, making their home in unfamiliar cities across the United Kingdom, from London to Leeds.

 

Windrush Garden at the Chelsea Garden Show

 For the 2018 Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Garden Show, Birmingham Council worked with Baroness Floella Benjamin to create a garden celebrating the rich cultural influence that the Windrush generation have had on British society.

Colour photograph showing a representation of a ship, with chimneys.  On deck are models of people and there are blue, purple and white flowers at the front.
The Windrush Garden at 2018 Chelsea Flower Show

The garden featured mini 3D models of actual passerngers that were aboard the Windrush, standing on a representation of the ship as it sets sail from the Carribean to Britain.  It won Gold at the Show.

 

National Windrush Day

In 2018 the British Government declared: 

A national Windrush Day will take place on 22 June every year to celebrate the contribution of the Windrush Generation and their descendants.