Southport Marks Windrush Day 2026 with Celebration, Reflection and Community Spirit
Report by:- Gemma Collins and photos by:- SACHA

ON 19 June 2026, Southport's African Caribbean community came together to commemorate:- 'Windrush Day 2026' with an evening of remembrance, celebration and unity, honouring the invaluable contribution of the Windrush Generation.

The event began with the ceremonial raising of the Windrush Flag, bringing together residents, supporters and community organisations to reflect on the legacy of those who travelled from the Caribbean to help rebuild Britain after the 2nd World War.

Guests heard inspiring speeches from Gemma Collins, founder of SACHA, and Tonika Stephenson from Liverpool Advocates for Windrush, who both spoke about the importance of remembering the Windrush Generation and ensuring their legacy continues to inspire future generations.
The ceremony also included a heartfelt blessing from Debs Attwater, followed by a moving rendition of Lean on Me led by Sandra Sumner, a song that has become the Southport African Caribbean Heritage Association (SACHA) Windrush Day anthem.

Following the ceremony, celebrations continued at the:- Bijou Cinema, where guests enjoyed a traditional Caribbean meal prepared and served by SACHA's dedicated volunteers.

The evening also included a successful fundraising raffle, with proceeds supporting SACHA's ongoing work within the community. In her address, Gemma Collins reflected on the importance of remembering the sacrifices and achievements of the Windrush Generation, saying:- "Let us not forget. Let us not become so comfortable and privileged in our existence that we forget. Today is about honouring them, and the many others who helped shape the society we live in today. On their shoulders we stand."

Guests also watched Windrush: Our Story, Our Community, a film created by SACHA, alongside Coming to England by Floella Benjamin, offering a powerful reminder of the resilience, courage and lasting legacy of the Windrush Generation.

The evening ended on a poignant note as a beautiful rainbow appeared in the sky on the journey home, serving as a fitting reminder of hope, remembrance and the enduring spirit of those who came before us.

SACHA extends its heartfelt thanks to its dedicated volunteers, supporters and everyone who attended, helping to make Windrush Day 2026 in Southport a meaningful and memorable occasion.

Anyone who attended the event is invited to share their photographs and videos to help preserve the memories of this special celebration and inspire future generations.

For more information about SACHA and its community work, visit:- LinkTR.EE/A_CSouthport.

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