Sefton Council was pleased to host a special Black History Month event in Southport on Tuesday 22nd October in collaboration with SACHA (Southport African & Caribbean Heritage Association).

At the ‘Lessons from Windrush’ panel, held at the Atkinson, attendees heard from first and second-generation members of the Windrush community.

Overcoming discrimination

In a thought-provoking and emotional evening, speakers discussed the resilience of people who built a new life in Britain after moving from the Caribbean, overcoming barriers such as discrimination and prejudice.

In keeping with the Black History Month 2024 theme of ‘reclaiming narratives’, the panel focused on the many ways in which those known as the ‘Windrush generation’ and following generations have positively affected the nation.

The invaluable efforts of those who fought for the Allies during World War Two and those who were invited and subsequently migrated to the UK, as part of its post-war rebuilding were highlighted.

Celebrating legacy

The event also celebrated the enduring legacy of the community and stories of people with Caribbean ancestry enriching British society and culture.

Councillor Liz Dowd, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnership Engagement said: “The celebration of Black History Month this year provided an opportunity to shine a light on how diversity and inclusion enriches our Borough.

“Sefton is a Borough for everyone, and hearing about communities’ unique experiences helps us focus on what we can do to encourage equality while making prejudice a thing of the past.

“This panel gave us a chance to hear many important voices and I’d like to thank everyone who took part in the panel for sharing their stories.”

The Atkinson is hosting an exhibition on the Windrush generation, which will be in place until Saturday 18th January. To stay up to date with all their future events and exhibitions, people can visit www.theatkinson.co.uk