Unanimous Backing for Windrush Solidarity and Support Motion
There was unanimous support at last night's Full Council meeting for Cllr Patrick Solomon's motion for Bedford Borough Council to pledge their solidarity and support for local residents of the Windrush generation and their families.
Cllr Solomon introduced the motion, highlighting the betrayal of people who were invited here by the UK government many years ago, only to be threatened with deportation by the Home Office in spite of their legal right to remain permanently.
Cllr Solomon's parents were of the Windrush generation, having moved to this country from Jamaica, and he also spoke of his own family's experiences.
The motion, which was passed with support from all Councillors across all parties, recognises the 'enormous contribution of members of the Windrush Generation to British society following the Second World War.'
It also includes pledges for the Council to mark Windrush Day (22 June), to offer support and signposting to local Windrush residents including promotion of the Windrush compensation scheme, and to work with local Bedford support group, Legacy Of Windrush Descendants.
Commenting after the meeting, Cllr Solomon spoke of how he is looking forward to working with Legacy of Windrush Descendants and with the Council to help anybody in need of support.
Cllr Solomon's motion can be read in full at Item 15 in the agenda for the Full Council meeting on 5th February here.