Sharon's blog

The WAWI Project was founded in 2009 answering the question “Why are West Indians in this Country”. Following a meeting in 2011 with the then County Chairman of the Royal British Legion Dave Gooding we were put in touch with the British and Caribbean Veterans Association.

We took with us a Standard of the West India Regiment to showcase our work and Lee quickly volunteered to carry the Standard on our behalf at the 90th Annual Poppy Parade.

The Great War was by far the most brutal in history and it is no wonder many of its soldiers were unprepared for the horrors they would encounter.

Before the end of the war, the army would deal with approximately 80,000 cases of shell shock. This condition accounted for one seventh of all medical discharges from the British Army.

However, 306 British and Commonwealth soldiers were executed for crimes such as desertion and cowardice; many of whom may well have been suffering with what is known today as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).  

Bill Hern of Historycal Roots recently made a trip to Trinidad to research the life of Trinidadian singer/actor Mona Baptiste who came to England on the Empire Windrush in 1948. One of the mysteries he hoped to solve was why Mona elected to move to England and not, for example, the United States? Mona had family in the States and was already popular with an American audience through her appearances on the US Forces Radio in Trinidad. Mona was a blues singer and the States was the birthplace of the blues as well as the home of her idol, Lena Horne.

Over the past 10 years members of the WAWI Project have been working tirelessly promoting and raising awareness of the true history of Windrush, and the contributions made by those British Citizens who answered Britain's call for help. 

To commemorate 71 years of Windrush, events were held throughout the week commencing 16th June with a Sunday morning Service of Thanks Giving at the Calvary Church of God in Christ, Burlington Street, Newtown,  

Courtesy of Baroness Lawrence of Clarendon OBE

22nd April is national Stephen Lawrence Day, commemorating the life of my son Stephen Lawrence, a young man who had a bright future ahead of him. 

We would like to thank the WMP Black and Asian Police Association (BAPA) for their team spirit, community engagement and continued support to the WAWI Project.

For the past 4 years members of BAPA have given their free time to work in partnership with the Project in undertaking presentations, workshops and parades at both official and unofficial events.

Events have included Educational Days, Remembrance Services, Charity Fundraising, Church Services and School Assemblies.

Why are West Indians in this Country? Britain Called and they answered.

For more than 10 years the WAWI Project has been raising awareness of the Windrush story and the real reason why hundreds of British passport holders came to Britain in 1948.

They brought hope, help and friendship and much needed money to boost a struggling economy.

In honour of all those who came to help rebuild Broken Britain, the WAWI Project and our Community partners held a variety of events spanning 9 days beginning 16th June.

Courtesy of Bill Hern.

In 1928, 17 year old John Edward ‘Eddie’ Parris a left winger signed for Bradford Park Avenue and remained at the club until 1934. Appearing in 133 games he scored 38 goals.

On 5th December 1931 he was selected to play for Wales against Ireland, becoming the first black footballer to play for Wales. Wales beat Ireland in Belfast 4 – 0 but it would be Eddie’s only International appearance.

Few people have heard the name of Walter Tull. Those who have, rarely appreciate the relevance of his contribution to both sport and service to King and Country.

His early life was marred with personal tragedy, and has he grew up he continued to face hardship and misfortune. Despite this deprived start in life, his conviction to succeed, guts and skill, helped him to shape a career in football.

Remembrance commemorations take place every year across the world with the Poppy taking Centre stage as a symbol of peace. These events are an opportunity to remember the sacrifices made by all communities regardless of Colour, Creed or race. 

Retired Captain and WAWI Member, Kevin Junor led the Parade in Bolton, Canada. https://www.caledonenterprise.com/community-story/7847977-in-photos-bolton-remembrance-day-ceremony/