RAFFA Celebrates the Windrush Generation at The Big Caribbean Lunch in Brixton
- Angelina Elliott
- Jul 8
- 2 min read
Brixton Square truly came alive on Sunday, 22nd June, as RAFFA proudly supported The Big Caribbean Lunch, a vibrant and heartwarming event dedicated to celebrating the invaluable contributions of the Windrush Generation. This annual gathering, held right in the heart of Brixton, was a joyous tribute to the pioneers who shaped modern Britain.
The atmosphere was electric, brimming with the sights, sounds, and flavours of the Caribbean. Windrush elders were honoured with a special free Caribbean lunch, a gesture of profound appreciation for their enduring legacy. Throughout the day, attendees were treated to authentic Caribbean street food, filling the air with enticing aromas. Music was at the soul of the celebration, with live reggae, soca, and steel pan performances setting a lively tone. The Peace Gardens of St Matthew's Church resonated with the tunes of JUST VIBEZ, while veterans Cecil Ruben and Mr Mighty brought their expertise in Jamaican music and beyond to Windrush Square and the Black Cultural Archives courtyard.
Beyond the culinary and musical delights, the event offered enriching cultural experiences.
A powerful new outdoor exhibition, "Windrush Untold Stories," captivated visitors with 20 personal narratives and striking portraits of Windrush pioneers, offering a poignant insight into their journeys and experiences. Spoken word and storytelling performances further deepened the appreciation for the generation's rich heritage. Local artisan and cultural market stalls showcased a variety of products, adding to the community spirit.
Importantly, support services were also on hand for those seeking assistance with the Government's Windrush Compensation Scheme and immigration issues, demonstrating a commitment to addressing ongoing needs within the community. The presence of esteemed speakers, including Windrush Campaigner Patrick Vernon, underscored the event's significance.
Beyond the cultural festivities, RAFFA was also proud to facilitate a crucial community health initiative. We arranged for dedicated staff from NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) to host a stand in the tranquil Peace Gardens. Here, attendees could learn about the vital need for blood donation, register as new blood donors, and even take the opportunity to discover their own blood type. It was inspiring to see so many show interest, and we were particularly proud when one of our very own RAFFA representatives participated, underlining our commitment to encouraging life-saving contributions.
As a charity dedicated to empowering communities and addressing their well-being, RAFFA was delighted to be a part of this vital celebration. The Big Caribbean Lunch, organised by Friends of Windrush Square in partnership with Lambeth Council and other fantastic organisations, truly embodied the spirit of unity, remembrance, and celebration. It was a privilege to witness the community come together to honour the Windrush Generation and ensure their stories continue to inspire future generations.
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