Windrush: A Family Divided

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Robert and Jennifer Beckford argue the pros and cons of Windrush 75 years on.

Professor Robert Beckford and his Jamaican-born wife, Jennifer Beckford, argue the pros and cons of Windrush 75 years on.

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Windrush: A Family Divided: Part Two: Identity and Culture

Part Two: Identity and Culture

BBC Radio 4 - Windrush: A Family Divided, Part Two: Identity and Culture

Robert and Jennifer argue the legacy of Windrush through the prism of identity and culture

Robert and Jennifer Beckford unravel the intricate layers of the Windrush legacy through the prism of identity and culture. 

In the second part Robert and Jennifer Beckford unravel the intricate layers of the Windrush legacy through the prism of identity and culture. 

Robert argues that moving to the UK was a transformative experience for not only the Windrush generation but for the whole of British society,  helping create a new vibrant British culture. He cites the influences of Caribbean heritage people in music, film, sport and language in Britain. To help make his case he asks Jennifer to meet with Jamaican born England footballer John Barnes.

In contrast, Jennifer asserts that Caribbean culture in the UK is defined by stereotypes and the communities achievements in science and industry are overlooked and they received a  hostile environment in return. She asks Robert to meet with Barbara Blake-Hannah - the first female black news reporter in the UK, who went back to Jamaica after just eight years, due to racist abuse.
 
Robert and Jennifer also hear the views of second and third generation British Caribbean's on how they feel about their identity. Are they British, Caribbean or is it possible to be both? 

Finally, Robert travels to Manchester to speak to Tony Downie, who came to the UK as a child of Windrush. He served in the British military until his world was turned upside down after being threatened with deportation during the Windrush scandal.  

Will Tony's shocking story change Roberts view on the Windrush generation and benefits of being in the UK?

Produced by Rajeev Gupta

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

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Windrush: A Family Divided

Part Two: Identity and Culture

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