Exhibition celebrates 50 years of Ugandan Asians in Leicester
MUSEUM SHOWING ARTEFACTS AND TELLING STORIES OF THE ARRIVALS FROM AFRICA
AN exhibition to commemorate 50 years since the arrival of Ugandan Asians in Leicester has opened at Leicester Museum and Art Gallery.
Rebuilding Lives: 50 years of Ugandan Asians in Leicester is part of a series of programmes and events taking place in the city to commemorate those who were expelled from Uganda under Idi Amin’s rule 50 years ago.
The presentation celebrates new beginnings, marking the journey made by Uganda Asians who had to leave their homes and businesses behind during the mass expulsion.
Contributions to the city’s success in areas of business and culture are also celebrated.
The exhibition includes hundreds of artefacts, personal items and photographs donated by people whose families made the journey from Uganda.
Leicester organisation Navrang Arts masterminded the exhibition.
Nisha Popat, from Navrang, said: “I feel so privileged that we have been able to showcase this amazing story. It has been a pleasure to see people’s appreciation and emotional response to this exhibition.”
Museum visitor Braful moved to Leicester in 1974. A picture from his wedding day is featured as part of the presentation.
He said: “I followed my brother to come and live in Leicester and within three days I got a job at Walkers factory at the age of 17 and worked there for 35 years.
“The exhibition is beautiful and it takes me back to the old days.
“But it makes me remember how we suffered when we were kicked out of our country.”
The exhibition runs until December.
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