A candlelight vigil is to be held in Brixton to commemorate the sixth anniversary of the Windrush Scandal emerging.
The vigil will be at Brixton’s Windrush Square, outside the Black Cultural Archives and the African & Carribean War Memorial on Saturday. The area has long been recognised as the “spiritual home” of the generation.
Participating in the event from noon will be a cross-section of campaigners and clergy from The Windrush National Organisation, Friends of Windrush Square and Black Cultural Archives amongst others.
The event will see prayers and speeches made, a roll call and a candle lighting ceremony to commemorate the work of Windrush pioneers. Attendees will also recall those who have suffered as campaigners call for “equity and fairness equal to the Post Office scandal.”
Managing Director of The Black Cultural Archives said: “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 Williams’ Report recommendations and to safeguard against future injustices. Together, we remember, reflect, and demand rightful action.”
The scandal, which many have simply come to refer to as the Home Office scandal, began in 2010 when the Home Office destroyed landing cards Windrush migrants arrived to the UK on, despite the 1971 Immigration Act giving Commonwealth citizens the indefinite leave to remain - and the 1948 Nationality Act giving the ‘right of settlement’ granting them citizenship.
In 2012, the Home Office led by secretary Theresa May - whose tenure ran on to 2016 - introduced the "hostile environment" policy. The policy refers to a range of measures leaving people undocumented. People were subsequently prevented from accessing healthcare, work and housing. Many also faced deportation threats. When news of the scandal emerged in 2018, then Prime Minister Theresa May apologised for treatment received. An inquiry was announced and compensation scheme was established, however, many are still awaiting compensation to date.
Chair of the organising Group and of The Windrush National Organisation Bishop Dr Desmond Jaddoo MBE said of the vigil: “The fallout from the Windrush Scandal is still ongoing today some six 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 and 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 the political parties and government, and we hold them to account.”
