By KLTV Newsdesk –
The much-anticipated ‘Paraffinalia’ exhibition opened on Saturday, 3 June.
This celebratory thought-provoking informative exhibition, held in Huddersfield town centre, marks the 75th anniversary of Windrush.
The exhibition is hosted by Kirklees Local TV in partnership with Kirklees Council. The council’s contribution has been led by their Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) employee network and council partners.
At Unit 42-44, The Piazza (ex-Poundworld Unit) in Huddersfield town centre, the opening event saw a substantial number of visitors, with an atmosphere of celebration and learning in equal measure.
The exhibition will remain open until Friday, 30 June 2023, with visiting hours from 11 am to 4 pm every Wednesday to Saturday.
Speakers at the event included Louise Muhammad, Creative Director and Lead Curator and the council’s BAME Network representative; Dr Milton Brown, Chief Executive Officer of Kirklees Local TV; Mayor of Kirklees, Councillor Cahal Burke; Paul Levene; and Pastor Annette Armstrong.
Funding has been granted through the Windrush Day Grant Scheme 2023 by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities.
‘Delighted’
Councillor Carole Pattison, Cabinet Member for Learning, Aspiration and Communities, said: “We are delighted that ‘Paraffinalia’ has successfully launched, offering an educational journey into the rich and diverse history of the Windrush generations.
“This exhibition is not just a reflection of our past, but also a pathway to our future where we learn from, and honour, the resilience and contributions of these remarkable individuals.”
‘Cultural Celebration’
Councillor Naheed Mather, Cabinet Member for Culture and Greener Kirklees, said: “This is more than an exhibition; it’s a cultural celebration. It shines a light on the vibrant culture and heritage of the Windrush generation, showcasing their significant impact on our society.
“This celebration underpins our commitment to embracing and promoting cultural experiences that unite our communities and educate us about our shared history.”
An array of art, displays, literature, textiles, and media installations, carefully curated into ten distinct zones, takes visitors through the Windrush story.
Interactive elements such as food tasting, live DJ sets, children’s activities, domino tables, and a dedicated media zone showcasing documentary footage promise an immersive experience for all ages.
‘Inspired Generations’
Dr Milton Brown, Chief Executive of Kirklees Local TV, said: “The Windrush generation symbolises courage, resilience, and solidarity. Despite adversity, they’ve inspired generations and significantly contributed to British society and Black British History.
“Honouring their legacy, we must acknowledge their struggles and continue celebrating their influence in shaping our diverse borough of Kirklees and the UK.
“The exhibition is a celebration, a fitting tribute to remember the Windrush Generation with infinite gratitude and respect.”
‘Rich History’
Councillor Cahal Burke, Mayor of Kirklees, added: “It was an honour to open ‘Paraffinalia’, an exhibition that encapsulates the Windrush generations’ rich history, dreams, and contributions.
“The celebration is a testament to their resilience, honours their impact on our society, and paves the way for further understanding and unity among all communities.”
Through the ‘Paraffinalia’ exhibition, we honour the past and look forward to a future where unity and mutual understanding are central to our society.
“We invite everyone to join us this June to participate in this commemoration of the Windrush generations’ resilience, creativity, and accomplishments.”
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