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Good morning The arrival of the Empire Windrush at Tilbury docks on this day in 1948, bringing 500 passengers from the Caribbean, is a moment that symbolises the start of post-war Commonwealth migration to Britain and the shift towards the multi-ethnic society we see today. Since 2018, the 22nd of June has become known as Windrush Day. A day to focus on the progress we’ve made and to celebrate achievements, without being in denial about the prejudice that those on the Windrush ship and so many after them, faced. I recently spoke at a Women’s Institute event with Baroness Floella Benjamin. She told us eloquently about her experience as a young girl in Trinidad, being taught about Britain, as the ‘land of hope and glory’. But also spoke of her experiences arriving here and the daily prejudices she faced. Later today, Baroness Benjamin will be unveiling a new statue in London to mark the arrival of that first ship in 1948. Plans are already taking shape for a one year countdown to the 75th anniversary next year of the Windrush arrival, with lots of opportunities for people to play their part in making this a significant moment of celebration and reflection. Between 1948 and 1972 one hundred thousand nurses came to Britain to work for the NHS. The NHS would not have been possible without the work of those nurses and so many others. The fact that the NHS celebrates 75 years next year alongside Windrush, is not a coincidence. In his final ever public sermon, Prophet Muhammad spoke about equality among people. That no-one has superiority over another based on the colour of their skin. Islam and Muslims have long and deep connections to Africa and the Caribbean. The first ever Muezzin, person who calls people to pray, was Bilal, a black man who was freed from slavery. Stories are powerful. We must find ways to encourage the descendants of those early migrants into Britain to share, and remind us of the positive, but also to not shy away from the difficult conversations. I’m looking forward to seeing the statue being unveiled today. A strong reminder in the heart of London, to recognise and appreciate those who arrived in our country in 1948 and since then. A story that is owned by us all, not just a few.