Today, marks the 76th anniversary since the first passengers arrived on Empire Windrush on 22nd June 1948 - an anniversary known as National Windrush Day.
Did you know on this day in 1948, HMT Empire Windrush landed on Tilbury Dock just east of London - bringing 492 immigrants from the Caribbean.
Back then, the invitation was extended to Caribbean countries to settle in the UK and help support post World War II Britain. Those who arrived in the UK between 1948 and 1971 are recognised as the Windrush Generation. For many, the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush is considered a major landmark in the Great Britian’s recovery from the turmoil of war and the establishment of modern British multicultural society.
An exhibition celebrating the history of the Windrush generation in Wales is currently in situ in Torfaen Museum and is available to be viewed.
The Windrush Cymru Exhibition shares the achievements and contributions of those who settled in the UK from the Caribbean and their descendants. These pioneers played a vital role in rebuilding Britain – working in steel mills, coal mines, hospitals and public transport - shaping the fabric of our nation.
The Race Council Cymru exhibition, funded by the National Lottery, will be on the move to neighbouring authority Blaenau Gwent in the near future. Keep an eye on social media for more information.
You can also listen to the Valleys Voices podcast series, hosted by the West Gwent Community Cohesion Team, where Sean Wharton shares his story as a Windrush descendant and growing up in Gwent.
For more information on the Windrush Generation, you can visit the Windrush Generation Foundation by clicking on this link
You may also be interested to read and support Welsh Government’s Anti Racist Wales Action Plan - the plan aims to combat racism and promote equality across Wales by 2030.
