Ahead of the 75th Anniversary of the HMT Empire Windrush arriving in Britain, we’re honoured to share the below piece from friend of Alive, Roger Griffith MBE.
Social activist, author of ‘From the Windrush to The White House’, UWE Lecturer & Engagement Officer, and CEO of Creative Connex CIC, Roger has been organising events for the elders to celebrate events like Windrush for several years and has been an avid supporter of the Bristol BME Elders Groups.
Windrush signifies a key moment in British history and is a symbol of the people that emigrated from the West Indies and latterly the Commonwealth. The arrival of the passengers, filing off the boat smartly dressed in their ‘Sunday best’ in suits and ties, dresses, frocks and hats, is an important landmark and generates great pride. The Windrush Generation refers to people arriving in Britain between 1948 and 1971 and their latter-day descendants.
Today their impact can be seen in equality laws, the NHS, culture, business, sport and more, reaping plentiful rewards for Britain through the generations. Enduring racism remains in policing and education as well as wealth and health inequality gaps. Windrush 75 however provides an opportunity to commemorate the sacrifice and celebrate the achievements of the brave pioneers.
Roger Griffith MBE, (Hon Art.D.) Honorary Doctor of Arts
Marking the milestone in history and helping to spark conversation about the past, present, and future of British multi-ethic society, Roger will be giving an online talk on Windrush Day – delving into the rich and significant history of the Windrush Generation.
‘Windrush Through the Generations’ | Thursday 22nd June 11:30
Book your free place here.
We have also previously been partners in an animation celebrating the Windrush pioneers which you can watch here.