During October and into November, Bradford Cathedral is hosting an exhibition of Ugandan Asian migration stories, alongside stories from the Windrush Community.
These two exhibitions – which are sponsored by the University of Bradford – open up dialogue between different journeys of hope from two communities who continue to tell important, positive stories of Bradford’s own black history, as well as stories of migration to the city of sanctuary.
The exhibition runs through to Tuesday, November 14, and is displayed around the East End of Bradford Cathedral.
Visitors are able to explore the exhibition during the Cathedral’s regular opening hours of Monday – Saturday 10am – 4pm, and around services.
‘Journeys of Hope’ began with a launch event on Wednesday, October 4.
A panel of guests spoke about their own experiences of journeying to Bradford and how they have contributed to shared history.
Speakers at the event included:
- Nigel Guy MBE, Director of Windrush Generations UK, who talked about the story of Windrush
- Shamim Eimaan, Director of Eimaan Culture and Community Services CIC, who discussed the story of Ugandan Asian migration
- Dr Manoj Joshi MBE DL, a Ugandan refugee who led on bringing this exhibition to Bradford
Dr Manoj Joshi MBE DL, a Ugandan refugee, said: “Through adversity and courage, we embark on our ‘Journeys of Hope,’ weaving stories of resilience, unity, and a brighter future, reminding the world that refuge is not the end but a chapter in our unwritten epics.”
Nigel Guy MBE, said: “This exhibition is about personal movement, sacrifices and the change for better lives.
"It records and preserves for future generations the untold stories which should never be forgotten of the people from around the Commonwealth who migrated to the UK.
"This includes the Windrush generation elders and their descendants who have shared some of their stories, to increase understanding of their experiences, and reflect on the memories of growing up in the Caribbean and of their personal stories of life in the UK.
“It is a fitting occasion in this 75th anniversary year of the Windrush generation to truly recognise and celebrate the contributions all past and present citizens who have migrated and established strong roots in Bradford and to foster a genuine warm welcome of new arrivals seeking hope of peace, stability and purpose for all on life’s journey.”
Professor Zahir Irani, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Bradford and a Ugandan refugee, said: “Hope, faith and commitment shape our thoughts and actions.
"A society that embraces diversity is a stronger society that can unite communities to be more impactful in sharing the fruits of our collective wisdom and actions.”
The Revd Canon Ned Lunn, Bradford Cathedral’s Canon for Intercultural Mission and the Arts, said: “This exhibition is the fruit of conversations between the Cathedral and two significant communities in our city.
"We could have chosen any of the many people groups who have journeyed to Bradford and made it home but these two are where we started.
“The two different black histories that are told through all these individuals’ shared experiences tell of welcome, challenge, determination and hope.
"It is that word ‘hope’ that we want to explore through the telling of these journeys.
"Hope that has led these people to contribute so much to the culture of Bradford and they are not alone.
“We invite you to also tell your own journey of hope and Bradford Cathedral will ensure that it is heard and celebrated.”