The event, held at George Meehan House in Wood Green, was part of Haringey’s Windrush Day celebrations on June 22, honouring the contributions of people who arrived in Britain from the Caribbean between 1948 and 1971.
The Mayor of Haringey, Cllr Dawn Barnes, raised the Windrush Day flag alongside residents, councillors, community members, and schoolchildren.
Cllr Barnes said: “Windrush Day is a chance to celebrate the extraordinary contribution of the Windrush Generation and their descendants to Britain and to Haringey. Their hard work helped build our NHS, public services and communities, while enriching our borough’s culture, food, music and identity.
“Haringey is proud of its strong history of diversity and anti-racism, and today we honour those who helped shape the borough we know today. Their legacy reminds us that our differences are our strength and that we are stronger together.”
Speakers at the event included Cllr Mark Blake, resident Yvette Buttigieg, members of the EMBRACE network, students from St Thomas More Catholic School, poet Keiron Rennie, and writer Bridget Badoe McQuick.
Ms Buttigieg reflected on her personal connection to the Windrush legacy.
She said: “I arrived in this country in the 1970s, part of the second generation of the Windrush story – too young to remember the ship, but old enough to carry everything that came after it. We didn’t just come here to survive. We came here to build a home, and we did. We raise this flag for all those who made that journey and thank them for their sacrifices, which helped make life easier for future generations.”
Windrush Day, marked annually on June 22, celebrates the lasting influence of the Caribbean community in the UK.
This year’s national theme, Carrying the Flame, highlights the enduring impact of the Windrush Generation, celebrating their cultural contributions, resilience and community legacy.
The Windrush Generation has helped shape every aspect of life in Haringey and remains an integral part of the borough’s diverse and vibrant community, helping to make the borough a welcoming place for people from all backgrounds.