Remembering the Windrush Generation

The Windrush generation refers to the hundreds of thousands of people who arrived in the UK between the late 1940s and early 1970s, particularly those from former British colonies in the Caribbean¹. They were invited to help rebuild post-war Britain, filling labour shortages and contributing significantly to British life. The Empire Windrush, a ship that docked near London in 1948, carried the first cohort of migrants from the Caribbean who had been invited by the government to relocate to Britain after World War II. Their legacy is celebrated on Windrush Day, held annually on June 22, to recognize their profound and lasting impact on the UK.

Windrush contributions What Does it mean to me ?

The Windrush generation formed tight-knit communities, supporting each other in a new land. Many of us grew up in households where you shared with other families until your own families were able to secure accommodation for themselves.

I admired their strength arriving in a country where they were not welcomed, I can’t imagine arriving in the UK as a young person with no family or support here. Trying to find work here raising a family when there was no one available i.e. grandparents to support our elders so I honour them for their fearlessness.

They maintained cultural traditions, celebrated festivals i.e. Notting Hill Carnival, and created a sense of belonging.  I have memories of many parties held in friends and families houses and watching between the banisters as the elders danced the night away. Their legacy continues to shape British culture, reminding us of their resilience, creativity.

The next generation must continually be reminded of their journey and the sacrifices made for us. They can draw valuable lessons from the Windrush experience I have put together a short list of things that stood out for me

1. Resilience and Perseverance:
   • The Windrush generation faced adversity, racism, and challenges in a new country.
   • Their resilience and determination to build a better life serve as inspiration.
   • White landlords often refused to RENT property to Blacks. They would place adverts that read: ‘No Blacks, No Irish, No dogs.’ In response, Black people BOUGHT houses instead. They raised money using an old credit and saving scheme from Africa and the Caribbean called ‘Pardna’. First credit union Bank 1964, a group of British-Caribbeans made history by establishing the Hornsey Co-operative Credit Union, which became the first credit union in Britain.
   • Lesson: Persevere in the face of obstacles.
2. Community and Solidarity:
   • The Windrush pioneers formed tight-knit communities, supporting each other. Everyone was an auntie, or an uncle and you would never misbehave even with school friend just in case someone knew you.
   • They celebrated cultural traditions and maintained a sense of identity.
   • Lesson: Community bonds are essential.
3. Know Your History:
   • Understanding the struggles and achievements of the past empowers future generations. My parents always reminding me our struggles stories of Marcus Garvey and my father ensuring we listened to conscious music lyrics e.g. Culture and Burning Spear
   • Lesson: Know your roots and heritage.
4. Advocacy and Activism:
   • The Windrush scandal highlighted injustices faced by this generation.
   • Advocacy and activism led to recognition and compensation.
   • Lesson: Speak up for justice and equality.
5. Education and Empowerment:
   • Education was a pathway to progress for many Windrush migrants and the next generation. My mother always told me ‘That knowledge is power, and no one can take that away from you’.
   • Encourage learning, skill-building, and self-improvement.
   • Lesson: Education opens doors.
6. Celebrate Diversity:
   • The Windrush generation enriched British culture with their contributions Carnival House parties.
   • Embrace diversity and appreciate different backgrounds.
   • Lesson: recognise diversity and the value it beings

In honouring the Windrush legacy, the next generation can build a more inclusive, compassionate society.

Remembering just some of the elders:

• Lebert Annakie a.k.a Zion
• Hephzibah Johnson
• Hilda Taylor
• Robert & Daisy Taylor
• Matthew Taylor
• Hyacinth Francis
• Alma & Cecil McPherson
• Joshua Doyley
• Alice Maud Berry
• Israel Berry
• Linda Pinnock