Windrush Day, 22 June 2023, marks the 75th anniversary of the arrival at Tilbury docks, of the HMT Empire Windrush Ship bringing the first few hundred British Caribbean citizens, who were invited to come and help rebuild a nation that was suffering labour shortages following the impact of WWII.
The day celebrates the contributions of nearly half a million people who made that same journey between 1948 and 1970. It recognises the positive impact and historic contribution of the Windrush generation and their descendants to our culture and country.
The river Windrush, after which the ship was named, runs through our town. To acknowledge this link and to offer an opportunity to learn more about this fascinating period of history and the experiences, good and bad, of those brave people, Witney Town Council has installed a small Windrush reading corner in 1863 café bar.
There is a selection of books for all ages for café users to read and a risograph print based on original illustration by Kim Thompson depicts the arrival of the Windrush generation in 1948. 100% of the profits from these prints go to BME Cancer Communities here in the UK.
Cllr Ruth Smith, Leader of Witney Town Council commented,
“We all use the word Windrush in daily life, with so many things named after our beautiful river. Our ears prick up at news items about the Windrush Generation and their descendants. We are grateful for all they have brought to UK society and we stand in solidarity with those still affected by injustice. These resources are a chance for Witney residents to learn more and to appreciate the history and legacy more deeply.”
Cllr Owen Collins, Mayor of Witney, added,
“I don’t think we all make the connection between our own River Windrush and the Windrush Generation, but that remarkable generation, and the ship that carried that, took its name from the river, like so many other businesses and locations throughout our town. It’s right that we commemorate and celebrate this connection, and on this 75th anniversary, I’m delighted that we’re able to properly mark this link, and the immense contribution that the Windrush Generation have made to our country for three quarters of a century.”
