This Black History Month, people gathered at the newly installed tropical gardens in Walpole Park to observe the reinstatement and unveiling of two plaques to commemorate the Windrush generation and the abolition of slavery.

More than 300 local people and dignitaries gathered to witness the reinstatement and rededication of the two plaques. The unveiling was attended by council leader Peter Mason; the cabinet member for tackling inequalities, Councillor Aysha Raza; and the cabinet member for thriving communities, Councillor Jasbir Anand.

A number of other prominent members of the community attended, including the mayor of Ealing, Councillor Mohinder Midha; Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, who is known for instigating Black History Month; and Margaret Noel, who founded the Acton-based Descendants charity. The latter both spoke about the importance of culture and heritage for African and Caribbean children. Reverend Theresa Simons-Sam blessed the plaques in a moving speech and gave readings from the bible.

The event was attended by children from St Vincent's choir, who performed songs that related to the importance of identity and had the theme of a light that shines from within, whatever shade of skin. This was introduced by student Nia Fletcher-Anderson, who recently stood before MPs in parliament to talk about the importance of African and Caribbean history in the school curriculum. 

The whole event was highlighted by the Dance Carib drummers and steel pan, percussion and musical entertainment, before moving to Soane's Kitchen restaruant, where there was more entertainment and performances.

Councillor Mason said: "Today offers an opportunity to express the debt of gratitude we owe to that first Windrush generation for accepting the invitation to come to Britain and, above all, to recognise the immeasurable difference that they, their children, and their grandchildren, have made to so many aspects of our public life, to our culture and to every sector of our economy.

"It also offers a chance for us to remember the abolition of slavery, remembering the millions who suffered and died from the transatlantic slave trade, remembering those who made waves in the water and honour those who fought to abolish it."

Councillor Raza said: "Tackling inequalities remains a priority for the council. We want our borough to be a beacon of diversity and tolerance: An Ealing where the vibrancy and diversity of the community is matched by our inclusivity. It is our job now, with your help and support, to act and make a change."

Councillor Anand added: "We honour the invaluable contribution of Black, African, and Caribbean people in Britain. I hope that we can continue to listen to each other's stories and to learn from one another. The diversity of our society is its greatest strength and gives us so much to celebrate."