Back by popular demand, This years Windrush Festival took place at Crystal Palace Park and was nothing short of great vibes! Crowds gathered together to mark the 71st anniversary since the Windrush generation arrived to the UK shores. In recognition of this historical moment, Wanda Nation organised the ultimate experience for guests to get involved with the festivities. Following on from the success of last year, its no surprise that this year was predicted to be a hit!
Taking place over the 22nd – 23rd June, the festival consisted of true cultural appreciation as guests were encouraged to represent their background. Decked with flags, whistles, family and good vibes galore, Crystal Palace Park had truly been transformed…Caribbean style.
PROGRAMME
- Main Stage
- History Zone
- Kids Play Zone
- Art Gallery
- Food Village
- Well Being Hub
- Trader’s Market
- Pop-Up Bookshop
- Pan Yard
- Sound System Yard
- + More
With so many activities to get involved in, its safe to say that everyone had a great time. The day was blessed with true Caribbean vibes, featuring cultural beats, authentic designs and not to mention…mouth watering dishes! Whether you came to mingle or shake a leg, an amazing experience was guaranteed.
Who are the ‘Windrush Generation’?
‘Those arriving in the UK between 1948 and 1971 from Caribbean countries have been labelled the Windrush generation’. Basically, for those of us who are of Caribbean decent, its likely that our grandparents (great/great grandparents etc) made a huge sacrifice for what we call life today. The term Windrush is in ‘reference to the ship MV Empire Windrush, which arrived at Tilbury Docks, Essex, on 22 June 1948, bringing workers from Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and other islands, as a response to post-war labour shortages in the UK. The ship carried 492 passengers – many of them children.’ (Source: BBC)
It’s not known exactly how many people belong to the Windrush generation. The majority of children who were transported at the time, travelled on their parents passport, failing to apply for travel documents. The number is likely to be in the thousands! (Source: BBC)
Dear Younger Generation…
…Theres a little history lesson for you and background context as to why we gather together to celebrate an amazing mark in history. Dear younger generation, when’s the last time you gave your elders a hug or appreciation for the sacrifices they made for you? Speaking to myself as a direct great grandchild Windrush decedent, its safe to say that an act of appreciation is minor compared to the huge sacrifices of my elders. I will be mindful to always remember the strength and resilience undergone by the generations before me, continuing to make a conscious effort to learn and embrace my culture. Jamaica has been added to my bucket list as its one of the great travel destinations i’d love to see! Its so important for us as a younger generation not to be consumed with a westernised society. Carve the time to research your roots and embrace your culture…we’ve got a lot to be proud of after all!
Happy WindRush…lets continue to make history!
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