19/06/2023 - Celebrate the 75th anniversary of Windrush in Luton

Understanding of the profoundly positive impact of this Windrush generation on the life of the country is increasing with each passing year and part of the aim of a series of events to be held in Luton is to educate all communities of the contribution and significance of those pioneers who came here.

It is vital that each new generation learns of the lives who came over: their sacrifices; hardships; joys and culture. Not only that, but there will be an opportunity to learn how they helped re-rebuild a nation devastated by war.

Here in Luton, the Caribbean community has been heavily involved in health, transport, fashion, sports and the arts.

Drawing upon many of our community groups there will be a chance to see how the creative arts, such as music, story, films and drawings have been used to help expose and deal with the experiences of loneliness, anxiety, isolation and poor health affected these early pioneers.

Councillor Hazel Simmons MBE, said: “Luton’s strength lies in its rich diversity and for decades the  Caribbean community has been at the forefront of this. It is difficult to convey its contribution to the town, but I hope this upcoming series of events will help us all understand better our indebtedness to those Windrush pioneers.

“Not only that, but it is vital we learn from the mistakes and injustices that have been experienced by many, who nevertheless had the strength and fortitude to give to our town. The range of events that people can get involved in means there is something for everyone to enjoy and reflect upon in the coming weeks.”

The first in the series of events was a screening of Migration Generation - Windrush 75 at the Hat Factory this Saturday 17 June and it will culminate with the Hope Gala ball in October.

Starting at midday on Thursday 22 June, there will be a celebratory event as the Windrush flag is raised above the Town Hall.

Read more about the Windrush programme in Luton.