75 years ago, the first post-war migrants from the Caribbean came to Britain aboard the Windrush, in 1948. That generation of people has come to redefine and shape the cultural landscape of not just London, but the rest of the country. And Brixton Village is going all out to commemorate the momentous anniversary. As well as an all-day party on June 22 (Windrush Day), a striking new Windrush mural is set to be unveiled, that celebrates the Windrush generation.
The Windrush mural
Designed by local graffiti artist, Bunny (aka CREATENOTDESTROY), the mural stands 8 feet tall and runs an impressive 24 feet long. The real people and the real stories of the Windrush generation are captured within the piece. Many of those people helped shape and create the rich culture of Brixton and beyond.
Among the people captured in the mural are the likes of Grace Jones, Gus John, Jah Shaka, Benjamin Zephaniah, and more, who were children of the Windrush community. Their impacts on British culture are explored in the mural, allowing viewers a greater understanding of the “courage, hard work and resilience of the Windrush generation”.
All-day party
To commemorate the 75th anniversary of Windrush Day, Brixton Village has partnered up with Brixton Project and Just Vibez, for an all-dayer from 2pm until 10pm, on Thursday, June 22. This party will accompany the official unveiling of the Windrush mural.
There will be live performances, DJ sets, activities for children, and delicious food that highlights the culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Following that, even more DJ sets and live performances on Saturday, June 24 will keep the celebrations going, celebrating the traders who “continue to bring the original spirit of Windrush to Brixton Village.”
Said Diana Nabagereka, the General Manager of Brixton Village:
“In true Brixton fashion, we want to encourage a celebration with us and for us on this day. We hope that, with this magnificent mural, residents and visitors alike can join the Windrush Generation to celebrate the unique stories and understand the rich culture that surrounds this market.”
Both celebrations are open to all members of the community, and admission is free.