Windrush Celebrations

Our charity began in 1973 as one of the first Jamaican organisations that formed when many descendants came to the UK via Windrush in 1948. We saw the need to come together and support one another. Every year, we take part in Windrush events and host our own.

On Sunday, June 26, 2022, the AOJUK held a ‘Windrush Thanksgiving Family Meal,’ a project started by The Reach Society. We hope ‘Windrush Day’ (June 26) becomes a national celebration. We invited charity members and others to enjoy a meal with us; additionally, some attendees shared their Windrush stories and answered questions from the guests.

Windrush Stories

Personal accounts from our committee members

Cordella .K. (AOJUK Committee member)

It was a freezing cold winter’s day in December 1960 when my mother, myself, and two younger siblings alighted that British Overseas Airways Corporation plane, then known as BOAC, which later became BA. We landed at London Airport (now Heathrow).

School

We went to the local primary school as new arrivals in January, and I spent my time in those early months, at every opportunity I could, trying to avoid going out into the playground. I would hide behind doors, in other empty classrooms, and behind desks, but to no avail. Either the dreaded prefects or indeed the teachers themselves would go in search to ensure every child was outside getting exercise and fresh air. Needless to say, once I was outside, I would be found huddled in a corner, praying for the bell to ring, as I suffered burning of my toes and fingers from the bitter icy cold, and praying to return to Jamaica.

Something Brought Over

Although my mother didn’t personally bring this item with us, we bought one almost immediately after arrival—purchased in Brixton Market. No self-respecting Caribbean home in the early years would miss one essential cooking appliance—the Dutch Pot, or Dutchie, as it is affectionately known. Its diverse use was amazing: you could fry fish, brown meat, cook curry—almost everything cooked in this wonderful, versatile iron pot. I still have a Dutch pot that I bought when I moved out from my parents and still use from time to time.

Something I Learned on Arrival

Receiving pocket money was something completely new. As a result of that, I developed a skill for saving, which has stayed with me throughout my life.

Something I’m Proud Of

Making my own clothes. A skill learned in senior high school is needlework.

Advice to Current/Future Generation

Strive to do well, despite adversities that they may face. Become useful, worthwhile contributing members of society. Make us all proud and make themselves proud.

Advice to the Current or Future Generation

Strive to do well, despite the adversities that they may face. Become useful, worthwhile members of society. Make us all proud, and make themselves proud.