Jul 31, 20232 min read

WINDRUSH @75 ANNIVERSARY:

CELEBRATION OF RESILIENCE AND STRENGTH

The Windrush @75 anniversary commemorates the arrival of the HMT Empire Windrush Ship, bearing the Windrush generation from the Caribbean Islands. Britain called, and the Windrush generation answered, arriving in great numbers to help rebuild the post-war nation. Many of them went on to make invaluable contributions to British and Welsh society, culture, and the economy, working in sectors such as the NHS, Railways, and Steel industries, among others.

The celebration of the Windrush Generation began on National Windrush Day, the 22nd of June 2023, at the Senedd Building in Cardiff Bay. The event commenced with a poignant march led by the esteemed Windrush Elders and Commonwealth Nationals, as they journeyed from the Wales Millennium Centre to the Senedd Building, symbolising a powerful representation of unity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Windrush community.

The event was graced by dignitaries from across Wales, including the Rt. Hon. First Minister for Wales, Mark Drakeford, who welcomed the Windrush Elders and Commonwealth Nationals with heartfelt words, acknowledging the significant impact made by the Windrush generation on Wales and the United Kingdom at large.

Dr.Grace Kerry, Aunty Roma, and Jane Hutt.

The day was filled with heartfelt tributes, engaging activities, exhibitions, and cultural performances that paid homage to the vibrant culture of the Windrush community. Additionally, the Windrush @75 Music Festival took place on the 22nd of July at the City Hall in Cardiff. This festival was organised to celebrate and honour the significant contributions of the Windrush Elders and Commonwealth Nationals to the cultural landscape of Cardiff and the United Kingdom as a whole.

The Windrush @75 national celebration day at the Senedd was funded by the Welsh government and other partners, including Race Council Cymru. The Windrush @75 Music Festival was made possible through the funding support of the Arts Council of Wales and received proud support from Cardiff Council and other partners.

Mr and Mrs Hanniford One of Wales’s eldest Windrush couples.

Overall, the Windrush @75 Music Festival proved to be a joyous and memorable occasion, demonstrating the appreciation and respect for the heritage, contributions, and resilience of the Windrush Elders and Commonwealth Nationals, as well as their descendants in Cardiff and across Wales.