After sunset on Monday 22 June, the exterior façade of the Library of Birmingham will be lit up in blue waves to mark Windrush Day 2026.

National Windrush Day 2026 marks the 78th anniversary of the arrival of the HMT Empire Windrush to the UK.

On 22 June 1948, 492 Caribbean people arrived at Tilbury Docks, Essex, on the Empire Windrush ship.

Although news reports at the time reported that there were 492 passengers onboard, the ship's records show that it was carrying 1,027 passengers.

In the aftermath of World War II, the UK had a labour shortage and African-Caribbean migrants independently travelled to the United Kingdom to find work. These jobs included:

• production of:
  • steel
  • coal
  • iron
  • food

• jobs in the service sector, such as:
  • public transport
  • the new National Health Service (NHS)

About the celebrations

Celebrations across Birmingham and the UK focus on:

• raising awareness
• fostering pride in the Windrush Generation's contributions
• inspiring descendants through community workshops, historical exhibitions, and festivals

Article published: 16 June 2026