Chi Onwurah MP honoured as Dame wearing clothes designed at Newcastle College
Dame Chi Onwurah MP for Newcastle Central and West has been awarded Damehood, which she has accepted on behalf of her constituents, and in recognition of her work for all sections of the communities in Newcastle and the North East.
The MP’s outfit was designed to represent Dame Chi Onwurah's city and heritage: Geordie, Irish, Nigerian and showcase some of the amazing creative talent in the North East.
The suit was designed by Lamin, a Masters student at Newcastle College University Centre, along with his supervisors Lynne and Jordan.
Inspiration for Dame Onwurah’s outfit was taken from West African fabric and Geordie colours when choosing the fabric.
The mini trilby, designed by Margaret Woodliff Wright, also uses the black and white fabric as a band with an additional feature of West-African green and orange beads, taking colour inspiration from the Irish flag.
The outfit was completed by a Tyneside Irish Brigade Cap Badge, given to Chi by the Chair of the Tyneside Irish Brigade Association.
Chi paid tribute to their sacrifice when she visited the Tyneside Fusiliers memorial in La Boisselle in 2016, and has regularly marched with the Tyneside Irish on Remembrance Day, and frequently takes part in Tyneside Irish Cultural events.
Dame Chi Onwurah is grateful to the incredibly talented team of Lamin, Lynne, Jordan, and Margaret who have done a wonderful job of making sure all parts of her heritage were represented.
Dame Chi Onwurah, MP for Newcastle Central and West, said: “I am absolutely delighted to receive this honour on behalf of my constituents in Newcastle Central and West, and the greatest region in the world: the North East!
"This is not just a title, it is a recognition to continue fighting for opportunity, equality, and dignity locally, regionally, nationally, and globally.
“Growing up as the only Black family on a council estate in north Newcastle - female, in a one-parent household, on benefits, with a disabled mother - I never imagined I'd one day be called Dame.
"But I am proud and humbled to accept this honour.
“I accept it on behalf of my constituents, who have placed their trust in me time and again.
"The North East is not honoured enough, despite the extraordinary work happening across our communities, and I hope this recognition helps shine a light on that."