After sunset on Sunday 22 June 2025 the exterior façade of the Library of Birmingham will be lit up in a Waves pattern in support of the 77th anniversary of the first arrival of HMT Windrush.

Windrush Day

Windrush Day is held every year on 22 June. It celebrates the people who came to the UK from the Caribbean after World War II. These people helped rebuild the country and became part of British life.

The day is named after the ship Empire Windrush, which arrived in the UK on 22 June 1948. It brought hundreds of passengers from the Caribbean to start new lives in Britain.

The Windrush generation

The people who arrived on the Windrush and other ships in the years after are known as the Windrush generation. Many came to find work and helped in important jobs like:

• running buses and trains
• working in hospitals and the new NHS
• making steel, coal, iron and food

They played a big part in helping the UK recover after the war.

Challenges faced by the Windrush generation

Many people from the Windrush generation faced racism and unfair treatment. Some were not allowed to rent homes or get jobs because of the colour of their skin. Others were turned away from pubs, clubs and even churches.

The purpose of Windrush Day

Windrush Day is a chance to say thank you. It helps people across the UK learn about the Windrush generation and the difference they made. It also celebrates their children, grandchildren and the communities they built.

Article published: 18 June 2025