Writing inspired by the theme 'The Closed Door'
From the Caribbean Islands to Tilbury Docks,
To the Motherland they came across the sea,
With hope of a new life, Lord Kitchener’s dulcet tones sang
out:
‘London is the place for me, London this lovely city’!
They
took up the invitation to work in car manufacturing and construction, as nurses,
midwifes, transport workers, cleaners, cooks and porters.
Many
were ex-servicemen – they had already served Britain on the frontline,
But when
looking for a place to stay often the door was closed. Slammed shut!
‘No Irish, No Blacks, No dogs’ said the sign.
Despite
the hostile environment they built new lives and helped repair and
rebuild post-war Britain,
Children joined their parents, families settled here,
making Britain their permanent home.
But almost seventy years on from when they first arrived their
right to remain was brought into question …
By employers, landlords, the NHS, banks, social services
and the Home Office.
The hostile environment turned lives upside down and the
Windrush generation found the door closed again.
Slammed shut! They were unable to prove their citizenship.
Denied their legal rights many became destitute,
Were wrongly detained
And even deported.
These citizens who had been invited - now found themselves
not wanted!
In 2018 the Government finally apologised for its
unforgiveable treatment,
Compensation could be claimed.
But the tragedy is many died before being able to prove
their legal right to remain.
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