In this blog Elizabeth Alogba, Communications and Events Officer at The Caribbean and African Health Network (CAHN), explores the history of Windrush Day on 22 June and the importance of continuing to recognise it today ahead of their Windrush 2021 online celebrations.
The Windrush years refer to all those that came to rebuild and contribute to British society between 1948 and 1971. Ever since the arrival of Empire Windrush from the Caribbean at Tilbury Docks in London on 22nd June 1948, the Windrush generation have made a significant contribution to address workforce shortages and build post war Britain. For Britain, this invitation has contributed to the rich diverse society we have today. Sadly, many of this generation and their descendants have had their lives disrupted by an unjust immigration system.
This has happened because although people were told that they had the right to live here permanently between 1948 and 1971, the Government did not keep a record of those migrants and the law changed in 2012 where people were asked to prove their right to remain. Many who arrived in the UK as children with their parents did not have the documents and have been told that they now live here illegally.
Although there has been a formal apology, some people are still being affected by the injustice. This event marks the opportunity to stand in solidarity with those affected by the political incompetency that for some have resulted in loss of earning, restricted or denied access to health care, education, employment, other public services and benefits. Some have been detained, repudiated of legal rights and subjected to deportations.
During this time, we seek to build upon the legacy of the Windrush era and ensure that the positive history and learning from the Windrush continues for decades to come. Join CAHN in honouring the great historical achievers and tune in to be inspired by the diverse culture of our nation.
Our Chair, Faye Bruce, says:
“While we celebrate those incredible contributions where people moved from their home countries to build post-war Britain, many of this generation and their descendants have had their lives disrupted by an unjust immigration system. It is important that the contributions of migrants are valued in the truest sense.”
This celebration comes as we ride out the pandemic storm that has challenged our community in many ways. It was important for CAHN to continue to take forward the opportunity to recognise even more poignantly the Windrush generation and their descendants.
Celebrate with CAHN on Saturday 26 June 2021 | 13:00hrs – 16:00hrs. Register now: http://www.portal.cahn.org.uk/civicrm/event/windrushday
For further information about the event or to contribute any donations, please contact windrush@cahn.org.uk
The Caribbean and African Health Network (CAHN) is funded by People’s Trust Health Trust through Active Communities, using money raised by Health Lottery North West.
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