Journeys of Hope exhibition
During October and into November, Bradford Cathedral will be 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 - will 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 our city of sanctuary.
The exhibition runs from Wednesday 4 October through to Tuesday 14 November, and will be displayed around the East End of Bradford Cathedral. Visitors will be able to explore the exhibition during the Cathedral’s regular opening hours of Monday to Saturday 10am–4pm, and around service.
‘Journeys of Hope’ will begin with a launch event on Wednesday 4 October. Taking place from 7pm-9pm, a panel of guests will speak about their own experiences of journeying to Bradford and how they have contributed to our shared history. The event will conclude with refreshments and a chance to explore the exhibitions, and free places can be booked now via the Bradford Cathedral website.
Speakers at the event include:
- Nigel Guy MBE, Director of Windrush Generations UK, talking about the story of Windrush
- Shamim Eimaan, Director of Eimaan Culture and Community Services CIC, discussing the story of Ugandan Asian migration
- Professor Zahir Irani, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Bradford, who will give personal stories from the Ugandan Asian communities and their contributions to Bradford life
- Dr Manoj Joshi MBE DL, a Ugandan refugee who has led on bringing this exhibition to Bradford
- The Revd Ned Lunn, Bradford Cathedral’s Canon for Intercultural Mission and the Arts, who will be chairing a panel discussion with the speakers
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."
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.”
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.”
The Revd Canon Ned Lunn 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."
The ‘Journeys of Hope’ exhibitions take place at Bradford Cathedral from Wednesday 4 October until Tuesday 14 November. The exhibitions will be launched at a special event on Wednesday 4 October, starting at 7pm, and free places can be booked here or by visiting the Cathedral website.
The exhibitions will be available to view during Bradford Cathedral’s opening hours of Monday to Saturday 10am–4pm, and at services. Please check the Cathedral’s website or social media for any changes to these opening times.