For more than a decade before the so-called Windrush Generation crisis caught the attention of the media and became a huge humanitarian (and political) issue, Patrick Vernon has been campaigning tirelessly for recognition and honour to be given to these first migrants from the Caribbean and their descendants. His campaign for the declaration of an annual âWindrush Dayâ, marked by celebration and activities finally bore fruit in 2018 on the 70th anniversary of the arrival of the SS Windrush at Tilbury docks. That was not enough for Patrick who had, throughout those years been developing content and learning on the heritage of the African and Caribbean community from family history, 100 Great Black Britons, Windrush Generation.
Determined to find a way to ensure that the history and stories of the Windrush generation are never lost, he has partnered with Focus Games to create and produce Every Generation Game: Windrush Edition which is now available for sale commercially. It is a storytelling board game created to help families, friends and communities share their heritage, history, identity and culture through the telling of stories. The game encourages players to share their personal stories or use their imagination to present stories sparked by picture cards and historical timelines provided in the game. Each game accommodates 2-6 players is suitable from ages 8 to 80+ and can last for 60 to 90 minutes.
In the aftermath of the startling disclosures of the ill-treatment meted out to Windrush survivors, Vernon launched the âWindrush Justice Fundâ. He plans to donate 20% of the proceeds from sale of the Windrush Game to the Fund so purchasers will play a part in ensuring that the suffering of those dishonoured and ill-treated by British authorities does not become a 9-day wonder.
Ideas how to use the game and to order a copy visit: www.windrushgame.co.uk
Patrick Vernon (OBE) was born to Jamaican parents and grew up in Wolverhampton. Later this month the University of Wolverhampton will confirm on him an honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt) degree for his work in advocating and campaigning for African Caribbean communities. Patrick is a former Labour Councillor for Hackney London, and can trace family roots to the parishs of Hanover and Shirley Castle in Portland, Jamaica.
