An exhibition showcasing the lived experiences and contributions of the Windrush generation has been vandalised in Windrush Square, Brixton, an act campaigners have labelled “a blatant act of racial hatred.” The Windrush Untold Stories display, consisting of 20 portraits and personal testimonies of Caribbean migrants who came to the UK between the late 1940s and 1970s, was targeted in the early hours of Thursday morning (3 July).

Police were called just after 6am following reports of vandalism to the exhibition, which had been installed as part of ongoing efforts to honour the Windrush generation’s legacy in British history.

According to the Metropolitan Police, officers spoke to a man in connection with the incident but no arrests have been made. Investigations remain ongoing. Though there is some suggestion the incident may be linked to mental health, local community leaders are treating the act as racially charged.

The group behind the exhibition, Friends of Windrush Square, issued a powerful statement condemning the act. The organisation said:

“This is not only an attack on public art but a blatant act of racial hatred directed at a community that has given so much to the life and spirit of the UK."

Ros Griffiths, chair of Friends of Windrush Square, described the incident as “deeply upsetting and shocking”.

“Windrush Untold Stories was created to celebrate the contributions and resilience of the Windrush generation, whose story is central to the fabric of British life,” she said. “That it should be targeted in such a hateful way is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges we face in building an inclusive and respectful society.”

The damage has reportedly caused “considerable distress” among local residents, artists, volunteers and project partners, many of whom are directly linked to the Windrush story. Local leaders also expressed their dismay. Lambeth Councillor Donatus Anyanwu strongly condemned the incident, stating:

“We are deeply saddened that the Windrush Untold Stories exhibition has been vandalised, and strongly condemn anyone responsible. This act of vandalism sours the community spirit and sense of unity that we’ve built, but we won’t let an act of criminality derail our commitment to celebrating our diversity, or our commitment to making Lambeth a borough of equity and justice.”

The Met Police confirmed that neighbourhood officers are liaising with exhibition organisers and offering reassurance to the community in the wake of the attack. Despite the damage, organisers have vowed that the spirit of the Windrush exhibition will not be broken. Plans are reportedly underway to repair or reinstall the portraits, ensuring the message of pride, resilience and cultural contribution continues to be heard.