Bronze bust of Wolverhampton's first African-Caribbean councillor to be unveiled as city marks Windrush Day

Celebrated annually, the day honours the contributions which the Windrush generation and their descendants have made to British society.

It commemorates the arrival of the MV Empire Windrush at Tilbury Docks in1948, bringing passengers from the Caribbean to the UK – an event which marked the beginning of significant migration from the Caribbean which enriched British culture and society.

Dignitaries and members of the public will gather for a flag raising ceremony outside the Civic Centre at 10.30am on Sunday.

And a bust of Mel Chevannes, created as part of a community-led project, will be unveiled at Wolverhampton Art Gallery.

Mel, who will be in attendance, was the first Afro-Caribbean councillor in Wolverhampton after being elected to Graiseley Ward in 1981. She served for 11 years, chairing the Social Services committee in 1982.

The event  will also include speeches from representatives of the Windrush community; the Mayor of Wolverhampton, Craig Collingswood; and the Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Sandra Samuels OBE, who In 2022 became the first person of African-Caribbean heritage to become Mayor of Wolverhampton.

Mel Chevannes said: "I am humbled to be honoured by a bronze bust in the city of Wolverhampton, which has been my home for the last 50 years. 

"I am proud to be recognised for my professional, community and educational contributions to this wonderful city.

“It is truly amazing that this is the first such public recognition in England of a black woman who is very much alive."

Visitors to the gallery will also have the opportunity to view a temporary exhibition about Mel's life, achievements and contribution to the city. 

Mayor Collingswood said: "We are delighted to play our part in highlighting an important time in our history – and to celebrate the impact that the Windrush generation, and individuals such as Mel Chevannes, have had on our city and our nation."