Patrick Vernon

Colourful Radio spotlights Professor Patrick Vernon OBE

Colourful Radio spotlights Professor Patrick Vernon OBE, a former co-host of The Voices of Windrush on Colourful Radio, alongside journalist Sinai Fleary, Vernon brings both personal and political insight to this year’s reflections.

For Vernon, Windrush Day is more than remembrance, it is a call to action. He speaks powerfully about the victories that have been achieved through grassroots activism, including the establishment of National Windrush Day in 2018 and increased public awareness of the injustices faced by members of the Windrush Generation. These wins, however, have not come easily, they are the result of relentless campaigning, legal challenges, and community solidarity.

But the work is far from over. Vernon is clear that while progress has been made, barriers persist from ongoing compensation delays to the lack of systemic accountability for the Windrush scandal. He urges the public not to be passive observers but active participants in safeguarding the legacy and dignity of those who paved the way.

“Until justice is acheived, Windrush Day, will always be bittersweet”

As communities across the UK come together to commemorate 77 years since HMT Empire Windrush arrived in Britain, this moment calls not just for reflection, but for continued vigilance and action.

To watch the full video, click: here