The Empire Windrush was a passenger liner that travelled from Jamaica to Tilbury Docks in London, landing on June 22, 1948.
It is most famous for bringing one of the first large groups of post-war West Indian immigrants to the United Kingdom. After the Second World War, Britain encouraged immigration from Commonwealth countries, largely to help rebuild the country.
The Windrush carried 492 immigrants who had been asked to come with the promise of employment and a fresh start.
People arriving from the ship were given temporary housing near Brixton in south London where today you can see Windrush Square, which commemorates the ship’s arrival.
Windrush Day 2020 | Across the Seas
The National Maritime Museum, Greenwich is working with the Caribbean Social Forum to provide opportunities for participants to reflect on the resilience, dreams and legacy of the Windrush generation.
Caribbean Social Forum combats social isolation and promotes well-being among the over 50s through educational talks, dancing, music, singing, news and discussion groups and writing.
This year we have been working in partnership with the Caribbean Social Forum and University of Greenwich to develop online resources, talks and events involving different generations to explore Windrush and what it means to people today.
Celebrate Windrush Day with the National Maritime Museum on June 22
Events across the day
10am | We will be releasing a special interview with artist Deanio X, who created the mural From Africa to the Caribbean to Catford – A Great British scandal. The mural originally appeared in Lewisham.
4pm | Join a live panel discussion talking about HMT Empire Windrush and British Nationality laws.
6pm | Join a live panel discussion talking about commercial travel and immigration before 1948.
Supported by Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). For more information, visit the National Maritime Museum website.
#Windrush2020
