The arrival of the ship HMT Empire Windrush at Tilbury docks in 1948, bringing 500 passengers from the Caribbean, is a moment that shaped modern Britain.
The Windrush story helps explain why our multi-ethnic society looks as it does today. We want everyone – in schools and among the wider public too – to get the chance to learn about this important moment in our shared history. Developing new memorials to the Windrush generation could also help underline the role of the Windrush in our island story.
By the time we mark the Windrush centenary in 2048, those who can tell this story first-hand will no longer be with us. We will support efforts now to capture the stories of the Windrush generation, before they are lost, encouraging the involvement of young people to promote intergenerational dialogue.
Marking Windrush Day each year is an important moment to raise awareness of our shared history and to bring people from different backgrounds together. The Windrush 100 network will amplify voices across the UK celebrating Windrush Day each year.
Looking to the future, we will work to set the agenda for action today on discrimination and equality to achieve the Windrush centenary vision of a fair and equal Britain by 2048.
The Windrush 100 network aims to raise awareness of the Windrush Pioneers and their descendants, celebrate our diversity today and increase public understanding of the history of race and migration to Britain across the decades.
The network is open to all. It meets online to share plans and coordinate activities, linking up different organisations and opportunities.
To find out more about the Windrush 100 network visit www.windrush100.org
