In recognition of the 76th anniversary of ‘Windrush Day’, this celebratory event will acknowledge Birmingham’s Windrush Generation who contributed to the rebuilding of England, paving the way for future generations.

A host of Caribbean islands were under British rule when World War II devastated the United Kingdom and England had to call out to the people of the West Indies to help rebuild the UK and there was a response. On the 21st. June 1948 the SS Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury Docks, where the passengers disembarked – marking the mass migration to England on June 22nd.!

In 2018, the British government announced that day (June 22nd.) as the ‘National Windrush Day’ of observance. Blackstory Partnership CIC and Associates have designed the ultimate festival to respect, honour and celebrate the Windrush Generation.

Set in Birmingham’s iconic Centenary Square - a versatile area for both lively activities, commerce and travel - this amazing celebration offers something for everyone: a great place for food, music, conversations and fun.

Programme for the day will be:

  • Windrush Flag Raising by WAWI (Ex Service personnel), West Midlands Police, Black & Asian Police Association (BAPA) and the Birmingham Lord Mayor’s Office.
  • Carnival Procession lead by Kristina Gordon Windrush Carnival Queen 2024 winner!! Following Blackstory Partnership CIC recent fantastic competition final at Birmingham Repertory Theatre as well as the runners up.
  • Carnival Procession will have Dance troupes of up to 90 dancers “Bring it to Brum” and ‘Dance with Sago’ from Birmingham and beyond.
  • The procession will proceed around Centenary Square, incorporating Hall of Memory, Library of Birmingham, International Convention Centre and Birmingham Repertory Theatre.
  • Carnival costumes designed and made by the legendary Olton Brown aka Professor Black, with over 40 years’ experience of designing, delivery and winning of a variety carnival dance troupes’ competitions all around the United Kingdom
  • Benjamin Zephaniah Stage (honouring the late Dub Poet’s legacy) will be opened by Reverend Canon Eve Pitts. One of Benjamin’s poems will be recited by the renowned poet and TV presenter, Sue Brown.

The stage program will host a number of spectacular performances of singers, dancers, speeches, spoken word/poetry, all from West Midlands – including: Robbie Levi, StereoHype Creatives, Linton Kelly, Next Generation & Smile Choir, Lytie and Birmingham’s own Reggae Grammy nominee Yashema McCloud and more. The finale will be a music extravaganza by Wassifa Showcase.

The hosts are Paulette Francis-Green aka Empress P. and poet and creative practitioner, actress and singer Shaz Jones.