Mark Windrush Day with a fascinating exploration of over a century of Caribbean migration and its impact on Britain and the wider world.
Hosted by Kensington and Chelsea Libraries as part of its Black History 365 programme, this special talk challenges the common perception that Caribbean migration to Britain began with the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush in 1948. Instead, it reveals a much longer history of movement, settlement and community-building stretching back to the late nineteenth century.
Historian, educator and author Danny Thompson will guide audiences through the stories of Caribbean people who travelled across the globe in search of opportunity, education, military service, political change and new lives abroad. The talk will explore where migrants went, the challenges they faced and the ways in which Caribbean communities helped shape the societies they became part of.
Drawing on historical research and personal stories, Thompson places the Windrush generation within a broader narrative of Caribbean migration, highlighting the profound contributions Caribbean people have made to British society and the global African diaspora.
The event will also examine how migration influenced ideas of identity, culture, race and belonging, offering fresh perspectives on one of the most significant stories in modern British history.
Following the talk, audiences will have the opportunity to take part in a live Q&A with the speaker.
About the Speaker:
Danny Thompson is an educator, historian, artist and author with more than thirty years’ experience in the arts, education and Black history. He is currently a PhD student specialising in the History of Africa and the African Diaspora and is the author of The Afrikan Literary Heritage and Ethiopianism – The Forgotten Movement. He has delivered Black history programmes for organisations including Transport for London, the Probation Service and the National Fostering Association and is co-director of The Black Secret, an online Black history education platform.
Event Details:
Start Time: 6:30pm
Finish Time: 7:30pm
Admission: Free (booking required)
Includes audience Q&A.
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