Windrush stories told by St Pauls Carnival

For the first time, St Pauls Carnival hosted a three-part virtual event celebrating Bristol’s African-Caribbean community and discussing the experiences of those impacted by Windrush.

Each session included three speakers followed by open discussions in the virtual platform, following three themes: Journey, Authenticity and Growth.

Henry Palmer, Sovereign Community Development Officer, said: “We have Sovereign homes across Bristol, with approximately 100 properties in and around St Pauls and Montpelier. Many people from an Afro-Caribbean background settled in the area from the 50s onwards and the neighbourhood retains a strong affinity with that history. It’s a privilege to be in a position now to support the carnival in its online, adaptive form.

“As well as creating opportunities for our residents to gain valuable work experience in events management, our support helps to support the universal values of carnival – love, unity, respect, equality – whilst bolstering Windrush voices.”

Rob Lingham, Carnival Administrator, said: “The support from Sovereign is crucial to enable us to work with the elders in our community, to be able to document their first hand experiences of the Windrush Generation and the historical and cultural significance along with their memories which future generations will be able to access. This was a celebration of the Afro-Caribbean culture and how it helped to shape both Bristol and the UK.”