Just two weeks are remaining to visit the current ‘Journeys of Hope’ exhibitions at Bradford Cathedral. These exhibitions showcase the migration stories of Ugandan Asians and the Windrush Community. Sponsored by the University of Bradford, they facilitate a dialogue between two communities, both of which continue to share vital, uplifting narratives about Bradford’s black history and the experiences of migration to our sanctuary city.
The exhibitions will be open until Tuesday 14th November, located in the East End of Bradford Cathedral. Visitors can explore them during the Cathedral’s regular opening hours, from Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, as well as during services.
A visitor on social media commented, “A beautiful exhibition in Bradford Cathedral, detailing the support offered to Ugandan Asians, fleeing persecution. A reminder that at our best, we are welcoming, kind & compassionate.”
Dr Manoj Joshi MBE DL, a Ugandan refugee, says; “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, says; “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, says; “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 says; “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.”
The ‘Journeys of Hope’ exhibitions will be on display at Bradford Cathedral until Tuesday 14th November. They can be viewed during Bradford Cathedral’s opening hours of Monday – Saturday 10 am – 4 pm, and during services. Please check the Cathedral’s website or social media for any changes to these opening times.
