The Windrush Scandal 6 years on “National Candlelit Vigil”

A time to commemorate, remember and give thanks.

On Saturday 6th April 2024 at 12 Noon in Windrush Square Brixton London a candlelit

vigil and rally will being held to commemorate the 6th anniversary since the exposing of

the Windrush Scandal.

 

The vigil is to light a candle of love for those who have suffered and are no longer with

us, alongside in memory of the contribution of the Windrush pioneers.

Our continual quest for justice for the Windrush generations and descendants continue

alongside our ongoing campaign for equity and fairness equal to the post office scandal.

Participating will be a cross-section of campaigners and clergy, with speeches, spoken

word, prayers and will be followed by a roll call and candle lighting ceremony.

This is a public family event and all are welcome.

 

As previously mentioned, this takes place as follows:

Date: Saturday 6th April 2024

Time: 12 Noon

Location: Windrush Square Saltoun/Effra Road Brixton London SW2 1EF

 

Brixton is the spiritual home of the Windrush Generation and the event will be held

outside the Black Cultural Archives and the African & Caribbean War Memorial within

Windrush Square.

 

This event has been planned by a cross section of community organisations and

campaigners including The Windrush National Organisation, Friends of Windrush Square,

Nottinghamshire Windrush Support Forum, Black Cultural Archives, Justice for Windrush

Generations, Northampton Windrush Generations & Descendants, Churches Together

England, Churches Together Great Britain, Windrush Generations Bradford to name a

few of the partners.

 

Chair of the organising Group and of The Windrush National Organisation Bishop Dr.

Desmond Jaddoo MBE says; The fallout from the Windrush Scandal is still ongoing today

some 6 years later. It is important to note that the journey towards justice continues and

that this scandal does not define the rich contribution of the Windrush generation in

putting the GREAT back into Britain, however, it does define the way in which the

Windrush generation and descendants have been and continue to be treated. It is a long

road hence the importance of this vigil is that we commence the journey towards

healing and reconciliation whilst continuing fighting for Justice and a level playing field.

The true impact is still unknown and it is essential that as we approach a General

Election that the impact of this scandal remains on the agenda of all of the political

parties and government and we hold them to account.

 

Campaigner & Director of The Windrush National Organisation Glenda Caesar says: “The

Windrush Generations will always be remembered as the pioneers of or community,

they paved the way for us in the UK against all odds We Salute You.”

 

Campaigner & Founder of Northampton Windrush Generations & Descendants June-

Elizabeth White-Smith-Gulley “Remembering The Windrush Generations Who Are No

Longer Here. The Blueprint Legacy of Hard Work in Every Arena of Great Britain’s Land.

With Absolute, Admiration, Respect, Love and Affection.”

 

Dawn Hill Patron of the Black cultural Archives says: “The Windrush Scandal still prevails.

This Vigil brings us together to salute our elders, to honour victims of the scandal, to

remember those who have died without redress and above all gives us the strength to

continue to work towards a resolution, despite the injustices, to a bright future for our

communities here in the United Kingdom”.

 

Lisa Anderson Managing Director of The Black Cultural Archives says: “The Black Cultural

Archives stands in solidarity with those affected by the Windrush Scandal, hosting a vigil

to honour their resilience and demand for justice. We urge the government to

implement Wendy William’s Report recommendations and to safeguard against future

injustices. Together, we remember, reflect, and demand rightful action.”

 

Campaigner Professor Patrick Vernon OBE says: “Sadly, over 50 people have died

already. We still do not know the true impact of the psychological and traumatic impact

of the hostile environment policy on the minds, bodies and survival of the Windrush

Generation. 6th anniversary of the scandal is a call for action as we approach General

Election for politicians and a future government to be accountable.

 

Director & Advocate Windrush Generations UK and The Windrush National Organisation

Nigel Guy MBE says: “We must commemorate our cherished fallen and survivors, who

are yet to receive justice from the traumatic terrors of the Windrush Scandal and unite

with those battling to be recompensed!”

 

Chair of Friends of Windrush Square Ros Griffiths says: “The impact of the Windrush

Generation in Britain is undeniable. We want an urgent and fundamental reform of the

Windrush Compensation Scheme.”

 

Chair of Nottinghamshire Windrush Support Group and Vice Chair of The Windrush

National Organisation Reverend Clive Foster says: “This is a solemn moment when we

remember the fallen of the Windrush Generation especially those which did not see the

justice they deserved – let us that remain rededicate ourselves in the unending quest for

justice.”