Camden celebrates Windrush Day 2025
This month, Camden is marking the 77th anniversary of the arrival of HMS Windrush into Britain, with a programme of live events and powerful stories honouring Camden’s Windrush generation.
The calendar of events starts with our flagship Annual Pitt Lecture at Bloomsbury studio – held in honour of Camden legend Lord David Pitt, who dedicated his life fighting against racism and discrimination and made history as the UK’s first Black parliamentary candidate, standing for Hampstead.
This year’s lecture features Baroness Lola Young as keynote speaker – a lifelong champion of social justice who became one of the first Black women in the House of Lords. Baroness Young will contribute a powerful testimony to the enduring impact of the UK’s Race Relations Act on its 60th anniversary, of which Lord Pitt played a pivotal role in building.
Camden’s Homecoming Celebration also returns this June at a free family event at Talacre Town Green. Residents can rejoice with ska and reggae legends, carnival costumes, arts, crafts, sports and delicious food.
In a commemorative bow of our Windrush programme, a blue plaque will be unveiled at Camden Town Hall, where Britain’s First Caribbean carnival was held on 30 January 1959. This will mark a historical day in British history as well as Camden’s role in it, helping to immortalise the story for new and future generations.
“We are proud to be home to many from the Windrush generation, whose culture, innovation, and artistry have helped shape the Camden we know today. Our programme of events offers an unmissable opportunity for our communities to learn about the history of Windrush and to celebrate the rich Caribbean heritage that is such a vital part of Camden’s story.
“Windrush 2025 also marks 60 years of Race Relations legislation in the UK – this theme will shape our landmark Annual Pitt Lecture at Bloomsbury Theatre, where I am honoured to host Baroness Lola Young and take part in what promises to be an inspiring panel discussion.”
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Camden celebrates Windrush Day 2025 – key events:
19 June
- Annual Pitt Lecture - Bloomsbury Theatre, 7-9pm
22 June - Windrush Day 2025
- Windrush Homecoming Celebration – Family event at Talacre Town Green, 12-7pm
26 June
- Unveiling of plaque celebrating Britain’s first Caribbean carnival
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Further information
Pitt Lecture
This year, we reflect on a pivotal moment in British history - the 60th anniversary of the UK’s Race Relations Act. The lecture is held in honour of Lord David Pitt, who dedicated his life to medicine and politics, tenaciously fighting against racism and discrimination.
Tickets for the event are “pay what you can”, with all profits going to the Windrush Foundation. The Windrush Foundation is a charity dedicated to highlighting African and Caribbean contributions to British society through impactful heritage projects, educational programmes and cultural initiative.
Hosted by Councillor Sabrina Francis, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Young People and Culture, this inspiring evening will feature a panel discussion with Baroness Young, Cllr Francis, and Geoffrey O. Williams, Chair of Bernie Grant Arts Centre. The event will also include a special opening address by Her Excellency Rachér Croney, High Commissioner for Grenada.
Windrush Homecoming Celebration
This one-day, free event is your chance to celebrate their incredible legacy and explore Camden’s rich Caribbean heritage, culture and community spirit. No ticket bookings are required.
Expect:
• DJ's, ska, reggae legends and special guests
• African and Caribbean crafts
• Food and drink
• Opportunities to meet community organisations
• Sports activities for kids
Windrush podcasts
In this podcast series, three episodes were recorded to provide a space for the community to influence the conversation on the impact and legacies of Windrush in the borough of Camden. The podcasts feature interviews with Windrush descendants, community leaders, activists and experts to explore the history of the Windrush generation, the injustices they faced, and their ongoing struggles for justice.
These conversations share stories, and perspectives, and challenges stereotypes to contribute to a more inclusive and just society. The podcasts are all hosted by BBC 1Xtra Swarzy Macaly and produced by The Playermaker Group.
Episode 1 explores the lives and experiences of the Caribbean community who arrived in Camden between 1948 and 1971 and their contribution to the borough and the UK.
Episode 2 explores the changing face of Camden and the experiences and contributions of the first Windrush generation born in the UK.
Episode 3 explores the legacy of the Windrush generation looking to the future and focuses on the 3rd and 4th Windrush Generation.