Worcester marking Windrush Day 2025
Events are happening all weekend
Windrush Day is being commemorated across the region this weekend.
After yesterday's flag-raising ceremony and Reflections Exhibition unveiling at the Guildhall in Worcester, there's a big free event at Cripplegate Park helping to mark their resilience and sacrifice.
The generation arrived from Caribbean nations between the 1940s and 1970s - and contributed hugely to our country's recovery after WWII.
The Windrush Generation
This year Windrush Day commemorations are taking place over two days in Worcester.
Windrush Day is commemorated annually to mark the anniversary of the HMT Empire Windrush arriving in Britain from the Caribbean in 1948, following the Second World War.
The Windrush Generation played key roles in the production of steel, coal, iron, and food as the country’s economy recovered.
They also helped to keep public transport running, along with helping towards the National Health Service (NHS) and armed forces.
Resilience and sacrifice
Councillor Katie Collier, Vice Chair of Worcester City Council’s Communities Committee, said: "It’s important that we continue to honour the Windrush Generation for all they’ve given to this country.
“These events help younger generations understand their resilience and sacrifice, and offer a chance for us to express our gratitude."
On 22 June 1948, the HMT Empire Windrush arrived in Essex with 1,027 passengers on board.
Among them, 802 were from the Caribbean, accompanied by migrants from India, Pakistan, Kenya, and South Africa.
Over the next 23 years, around 500,000 individuals from the Caribbean migrated to Britain, forming what is now known as the Windrush Generation.
Curator and contemporary artist Riccardo De Bruce said: “I am honoured to curate The Worcester Afro Caribbean Association (WACA) art exhibition entitled 'Reflections'.
“The exhibition celebrates the important historical contribution made by the Windrush Generation and Black History icons by sharing chosen inspired contemporary artworks to inspire.”
Celebrations
Today's Caribbean Party in Cripplegate Park from midday to 4pm will see drum workshops, along with entertainment from DJ Ms L Vibez and saxophone player Dave Mellowtone.
There will be food available from Jamaica Wah Gwaan and refreshments served by Worcester Afro Caribbean Association.
More information about the Windrush Generation is available on the British Legion website.