Bracknell constituency MP, James Sunderland is supporting Windrush Day commemorations today to mark the anniversary of the arrival of MV Empire Windrush at the Port of Tilbury, near London, on 22 June 1948.
Those who arrived on the Empire Windrush, their descendants and those who followed them, have made and continue to make an enormous contribution to Britain. Windrush Day celebrates the British Caribbean community’s sacrifice, hardship and contribution to Britain.
Bracknell Forest Council are encouraging residents to celebrate Windrush Day through a number of home-based activities and events this year.
Suggested activities include:
- Tuning in to watch the National Theatre’s adaptation of Andrea Levy’s ground-breaking novel Small Island - free to air until 24 June through their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pac-Furijsw
- Sharing your stories and photos of you or your family’s journey to the UK and what you’ve brought to the nation and Bracknell Forest on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/bracknellforest
- Reading about Windrush stories via the British Library at: www.bl.uk/windrush
- Creating a Windrush playlist – inspiration can be found at: www.windrushday.org.uk/community/the-windrush-70-50-playlist
Cllr Paul Bettison, OBE, Leader of Bracknell Forest Council, said: “Windrush Day is a celebration of everything that our British Caribbean community brings to our rich and diverse nation and indeed, our borough.
“It’s an important reflection on everything that the Windrush Generation sacrificed and contributed, and still contribute, to Britain. Sadly, due to COVID-19 restrictions, it isn’t as easy to celebrate the day with events this year but there’s still lots going on and lots to do at home to mark this important part of our history and heritage.”