This year marks 75 years since the arrival of the Windrush in Britain. Image credit: Shutterstock.
Windrush Day takes place on Thursday 22 June 2023. It commemorates the arrival of the HMT Empire Windrush in Britain, with more than 800 passengers from the Caribbean on board - the ‘Windrush Generation’.
Each year, the date highlights the cultural and societal contributions made by the migrants from the Caribbean community that made Britain their home.
Millicent Stephenson: A member’s story
Three years on from the original feature, MU member Millicent Stephenson’s story is still as relevant as ever. In her insightful blog, she explores the impact of the Windrush Generation on both her personal musical development, and on the development of music in the UK as a whole.
She also encourages others to explore further Caribbean genres in addition to Reggae, such as Ska, Soca, Calypso and more. Millicent suggests choosing one to include in repertoires, in recognition of the Windrush Generations’ contribution to music in the UK Industry.
TUC launch ‘Roots, Culture, Identity’ art exhibition
Launched at the TUC Black Workers’ Conference in May, the Roots, Culture, Identity art exhibition marks the 30th anniversary of the murder of Stephen Lawrence, in whose memory the exhibition was established and the 75th anniversary of the arrival at Tilbury Docks of the Empire Windrush, bringing Caribbean migrants to the UK.
This year, the theme is Windrush 75 and the art in the exhibition reflects on the experiences, achievements and contributions of the Windrush Generation and their descendants in the UK, including the Windrush Scandal.
The exhibition is now available to access online, where you can learn more about the curators, artists and view their work.
Musicians and musical platforms celebrating Windrush Day