The story of Empire Windrush - Immigration to Britain - Year 6

The HMT Empire Windrush is a pivotal symbol in the history of British immigration, marking the beginning of a significant wave of Caribbean migration known as the 'Windrush generation.' On June 21, 1948, this British troopship arrived at Tilbury Docks in Essex, carrying a diverse group of passengers from the Caribbean and other regions. These individuals were drawn to Britain by the promise of job opportunities created by the post-war labour shortage. However, in later years, the Windrush generation faced severe challenges, including threats of deportation, denial of access to healthcare and benefits, and loss of employment. This led to a public outcry and a subsequent government apology in 2018, along with offers of compensation for the injustices suffered.

The story of Empire Windrush extends beyond the arrival of Caribbean migrants; it also includes Polish nationals displaced by World War II, members of the Royal Air Force, and individuals of British origin. Lucile Harris, a Caribbean passenger, fondly remembered her arrival as a joyful and exciting day. Despite their significant contributions to the UK during and after the war, Caribbean migrants faced considerable obstacles set by the Labour Government at the time. The government's "Whites Only" policy further discriminated against European Voluntary Workers, directing them to less desirable jobs, while Caribbean migrants, as British citizens, were exempt from such controls. These historical events highlight the complexities and controversies surrounding the Windrush generation and Britain's immigration policies.