THE contribution the Windrush Generation has made to Oxford has been highlighted by the city council to mark Windrush Day.

Thousands of people from the Caribbean responded to the government’s invitation to live and work in the UK from the 1940s-1970s, to help rebuild the country.

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Many came to help build the fledgling NHS, work in essential services like transport, and - in Oxford - to work in the Cowley plant.

As well as rebuilding the economy they helped shape our culture, influencing aspects such as music, fashion, food and the arts.

Their contribution is still making a difference today.

Councillor Shaista Aziz, cabinet member for inclusive communities, said: “Windrush Day this year is particularly poignant as it coincides with a time of national and international reflection on the racial inequalities in our society brought to stark attention by Covid-19 and the Black Lives Matters movement.

“We will take this moment to recognise and thank the Windrush generation for their contributions to the city and to call for further action to redress societal imbalances inflicted as a result of race.

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“We also stand in solidarity with families of the Windrush generation in our city and impacted by the immigration scandal seeking redress, compensation, and justice.”

Oxford Windrush Group is holding events in the city that the council supports, including an arts project in Gloucester Green Market on Friday and Saturday and Cowley Road Carnival on July 4, where organisers are encouraging people to hold their own street parties.

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