QMU Black History Month event explores the lasting impact of the Windrush Scandal
Queen Margaret University will mark Black History Month with a thought-provoking panel led by the Home Office Windrush Engagement Team, shining a spotlight on the history and lasting impact of one of Britain’s most significant political scandals.
On Wednesday 8 October, the University will welcome speakers to unpack the history and far-reaching consequences of the Windrush Scandal. The event will also examine the Windrush Compensation Scheme, offering valuable insights for those directly affected and for anyone seeking to understand this pivotal moment in British history.
The Windrush generation refers to people who came to Britain from the Caribbean between 1948 and 1971, named after the ship HMT Empire Windrush. In 2018, it was revealed that thousands of these individuals and their descendants - who had the legal right to live and work in the UK - were wrongly denied basic rights, including access to work, housing, healthcare, and banking. Some were even detained or deported, while many faced severe financial hardship. In response, the Government established the Windrush Compensation Scheme to support those affected.
Paola Tisi, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Adviser at QMU, said: “Black History Month is not only about celebrating achievements, but also about confronting difficult truths. We are honoured to welcome the Windrush Engagement Team to lead our annual event this year - and, for the first time, open it up to the wider public.
“The Windrush Scandal is one of the most significant injustices in recent Black history in the UK, and it continues to affect lives today. By creating space for open discussion, we can honour the resilience of the Windrush generation, raise awareness of their experiences, and ensure lessons are learned for the future. As a university with social justice at the core of our values, we are committed to advancing race equality both within and beyond our own institution.”
The event will take place on Wednesday 8 October 2025 from 16:00 – 17:30 in Queen Margaret University’s Halle Lecture Theatre. It’s open to anyone who would like to learn more about the Windrush Scandal and the work of the Windrush Engagement Team. Following the talk, there will be an opportunity to ask the Windrush Engagement Team any questions.
