Windrush and My Granddad.
The 22nd June 2018, marked 70 years to the day that the Windrush Generation began to arrive in the UK.
My Granddad, Mr Cyril Nehemiah White, was amongst them, making the long journey by boat to the ‘land of milk and honey’ in search of a better life for him and his children.
Granddad's Passport photo.
Sadly my Grandmother had passed away and my Granddad was a single parent, looking for a better life for him and his 4 Children.
On arriving in the UK, I’m told that my Granddad worked for British Rail, stationed in London, before moving to set up home in Bristol.
Having earned and saved up enough money, my Granddad sent for my Mum and my Aunty, who also travelled to the UK by boat.
I’ve yet to understand why my Granddad didn’t send for the rest of his children. Maybe after seeing how hard life was here in the UK he decided that they would be better of in Jamaica.
Living in Bristol, Granddad became well established in the Community, often featured in the local newspapers as one who helped to make a difference in the lives of those who were experiencing injustice and unfair treatment. A people’s person, he fearlessly advocated on their behalf, irrespective of their race or age, not stopping until changes were made which had a positive social impact.
Granddad looking sharp and ready to advocate for change in the Bristol Community.
After retiring back to Jamaica, he sadly passed away on May 1st, 2001.
If he was alive today, I’m sure he would have been a part of the Windrush Day Celebrations AND at the same time making his way to meet with our current Prime Minister Theresa May, to advocate and remind her that whilst we are grateful for this official day, she needs to make sure that as of 9am on the following Monday morning, she is back in her office, agreeing and signing off government policies to give the Windrush Generations their rightful place in the UK with compensation and full benefits.
Granddad RIP, if you didn’t make the journey, I wouldn’t be here today following in your footsteps.
Granddad enjoying his retirement, relaxing on his veranda in Jamaica.
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