Watch: Bronze statue in honour of first Wolverhampton African Caribbean councillor is unveiled as the city celebrates Windrush day
Mel Chevannes CBE, the first Afro-Caribbean to become a councillor in Wolverhampton has spoken of her pride after a bust of her was unveiled.
She spoke after Wolverhampton Council marked Windrush Day with the unveiling at the city's art gallery after a morning of celebration.
Mrs Chevannes, who has lived in Wolverhampton for 50 years, was elected to Graiseley Ward in 1981. She served for 11 years, chairing the Social Services committee in 1982.
Although now retired, she is a volunteer at Wightwick Manor and Gardens and continues to be active in the community.
She said: "It is wonderful to be recognised in this way in the city I have been proud to call my home for 50 years.
"I believe I am the only living African-Caribbean woman to have a statue or bust made of them and it is an honour to see that happen this morning.
"I dedicate it to the true diversity that this city has always been known for, going back many years and continuing today. I would just like to thank everyone who has made this possible on Windrush Day which is being celebrated once more."
Windrush Day was also marked by Wolverhampton Council with a flag raising ceremony.
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.
The morning event heard speeches from the Mayor of Wolverhampton, Craig Collingswood and Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Sandra Samuels OBE. In 2022 she became the first person of African-Caribbean heritage to become mayor of Wolverhampton.
She said: "That remains a great honour for me and whilst I was the first African Caribbean woman to become mayor, I was also only the 11th woman to be elected to the position.
"It is wonderful to be able to gather on Windrush Day with so many people of the city and celebrate the diversity it is known for, The heritage centre I help run in Clifford Street also remains a focal point for the community and is going from strength to strength."
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."
