Thanks to funding from Near Neighbours, the London borough of Newham will mark the 75th anniversary of Windrush with a series of events which include art exhibitions, talks, workshops and music with DJs and local artists.
The celebrations will kick off with a launch event at Stratford Old Town Hall on Windrush Day, Thursday 22 June, 6.30-8pm, with speeches, networking and refreshments. WINDRUSH JOURNEYS: A black and white photographic exhibition of the Windrush community and the journey they made, with augmented reality will also be on display.
Councillor Rohit K. Dasgupta, Deputy Cabinet Member for Equalities, Social Justice and Culture said: “I’m looking forward to this year’s milestone celebrations as we remember and recognise the huge contributions made by the Windrush generation and their descendants in Britain.
"In Newham, we continue to keep the legacy alive through the extensive programme of events planned for residents of all ages, which reflects the positive impact made by these remarkable group of people in all aspects of our society. It provides an opportunity to share their transformational history with the younger generation in creative and engaging ways through art, music, workshops and exhibitions.
“This year’s celebrations are not to be missed.” The big celebration will take place on Saturday 24 June at Stratford Old Town Hall, 12-10pm, with a day of activities and events. The afternoon activities will feature a Caribbean marketplace, Nail Art by Colour Riot Nails, face painting by NyGlorious face arts and Elizabeth Balogun, BSL performance of Cordelia the Stowaway, storytelling by Jane Grell, a talk on the Windrush generation’s contribution to music and so much more.
From 7pm, the stage programme will be hosted by TV Presenter and Content Creator, Annaliese Dayes. The entertainment will include the Reggae Choir, Pan Vibration Steel Band, and band One Love who will cover popular reggae tunes. The evening will end with a set from DJ Handson Family which will run till 10pm.
This summer, we will also launch an exhibition called HOME: Remembering the Windrush Generation, which is curated by author and speaker, Tony Fairweather. The exhibition gives an insight into the nostalgic recreation of an iconic Caribbean front room and will be used to host talks, workshops and other events.
The exhibition is for all ages to enjoy and learn about the history of the Windrush generation who came to England from the Caribbean after the war. Details about the location and viewing times will be published shortly.
