Weekend of fun marks 70 years since Windrush
ORGANISER SAYS DAY OF CELEBRATION ANNOUNCEMENT IS ‘BITTERSWEET’
MEMBERS of Manchester’s ‘Windrush generation’ have been continuing their celebration of the 70th anniversary of the first Caribbean migrants arriving in Britain.
The latest event was a weekend of fun at Alexandra Park involving a cricket match, cultural market, a football competition, music and children’s entertainment.
It was organised by Richard Davies, who came to Britain in 1975 from Jamaica to join his parents, who moved to this country in the 1960s.
The 60-year-old man from Crumpsall now provides support for small businesses and in his spare time works as an activist, acting as voice for the Manchester Windrush community.
Richard said the announcement by the government to hold a national day of celebration was a ‘bitter-sweet moment’ for the community.
He said: “People came to this country very young, and besides the cold and the racism, had to deal with long separation from their loved ones.
“A lot of people only planned to stay for five years but have stayed and contributed tremendously towards the transport industry and local charity work.
“I definitely feel proud to be part of a national day of celebration. Despite the problems we have experienced, the fact that the government have introduced this day – we as a second generation can make sure there is a legacy there which we can keep alive.”
Richard said he hopes the introduction of a national Windrush Day can shed a positive light on what has been a difficult time for Windrush citizens and their right to remain in Britain.
A full list of celebrations across Manchester up to the end of this month can be found be found by clicking on the Events link at http:// themanchestercarnival.com