Landmark Windrush monument to be unveiled in Wolverhampton to mark national cultural day

A permanent monument honouring the Windrush generation is set to be unveiled in the heart of Wolverhampton.

The city will mark Windrush Day 2026 on June 22 with the unveiling of the significant public monument at St Patrick's Park in the Broad Street Basin in recognition of the Windrush generation's contribution to the city over the past 78 years.

The monument is the result of a community-led partnership developed over several years and follows a consultation with Wolverhampton’s residents to help shape its location, themes and purpose.

The monument, created by artist Luke Perry, depicts the bow of the Windrush ship, an anchor, and rising chains.

It features a poem, ‘A Monument is a Testament’, by poet Casey Bailey cut into the steel and also features painted imagery by artist Victoria Murrain that tell family stories of the Windrush generation.

The community-led ceremony is open to the public and take places at 5.30pm on June 22, followed by a private evening reception.

Organisations involved in the project include Black Heritage Walks Network CIC, Black History & Heritage Wolverhampton, Churches 4 Positive Change, SIAN Computers, Wolverhampton Council and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Speaking on behalf of Wolverhampton’s Windrush Committee, Bishop Ruben King of Churches 4 Positive Change said: “On behalf of all partners involved with Wolverhampton’s Windrush Committee, we are extremely proud to have helped shape this important endeavour

“This monument honours those who were invited to cross oceans, came and reshaped Wolverhampton with their hands, their hope and their unbreakable spirit.

“It will stand as a reminder for future generations to pause, ask and remember the courage, strength and sacrifice that laid our deeply woven foundations, and will inspire the carrying forward of the living Windrush legacy.”

Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Paul Singh, said: “Wolverhampton has played a significant role in the story of the Windrush generation, and this monument is a powerful and lasting recognition of that legacy.

“I am proud that, on Windrush Day, we will come together to unveil a monument that reflects not only our history, but our shared future, ensuring that these stories are visible, valued and remembered for generations to come.”