This weekend marks 70 years since the arrival of the Empire Windrush. On 22 June 1948, 492 passengers mainly from Jamaica arrived at Tilbury Docks. The majority of the first passengers made their home in Lambeth and the streets around Coldharbour Lane in Brixton quickly became the nucleus of the Jamaican community in London.
Pathe news shown at Tea party in Lambeth Town Hall
Lambeth Town Hall hosted much of a new musical heritage and was the location of the famous No Colour Bar dance in 1955.
Lambeth council is spearheading the Windrush 70 campaign and commissioned the official anniversary design from young local Lambeth designers.
Sadly, this year’s celebrations have been accompanied by the Conservative government’s “hostile environment” policy which has made many of the Windrush generation feel unwelcome in their home.
This weekend is not only about recognising the contributions of the Windrush generation, against the backdrop of a hostile government, but we will also celebrate the importance of immigration and embrace our tolerance, openness and diversity.
See Cllr Winifred’s blog about the importance of celebrating Windrush:http://www.lambeth-labour.org.uk/windrush_weekend
To celebrate Spring come along on Saturday 6th April between 2pm and 5pm to the Flower Show in St Lukes Church SE27 0HS. Refreshments and free entry.
