First Born Second is a multi-media project celebrating the British-born children of Caribbean immigrants. Through filmed interviews, new writing, events and artistic expression, it explores their unique identities, challenges, and contributions. Supported by Arts Council England, it will provide fresh perspectives and understanding of their impact on contemporary Britain.
The exciting programme celebrates the lives, challenges, and achievements of those who grew up Black and British during the 1970s and 80s, and their descendants.
Inspired by Roger Griffith’s lived experience, the project shifts the spotlight beyond traditional Windrush stories to highlight the second generation — the children of the first generation who grew up to shape modern Britain while navigating their own version of the “hostile environment.” Through creativity, conversation, and culture, we aim to honour their journeys and share their lasting contributions to our society.
What We’re Doing
Providing platform for personal stories that explore identity, belonging, and resilience.
Creating engaging, immersive spaces where audiences can connect with these powerful narratives.
Sparking conversations across generations and communities about what it means to be Black and British.
First Born Second Interviews
We’ve been busy interviewing seven Bristolians, all second generation children of Windrush pioneers, about their experiences growing up Black and British as the first generation in their family to be born in England. The films are being made in partnership with Fam Films and will be presented at our People’s Windrush Exhibition later this year.
What’s Coming Up
The programme will bring together a rich mix of activities and events, including:
Anthology
An anthology of new writing and illustrations, showcasing talented early-career writers and artists. Submit your work!
Black British cinema
A music-themed film season celebrating six decades of Black British cinema.
Workshops
Spring 2026
Workshops, talks, and public events designed to encourage dialogue, learning, and connection.
Podcast
An oral history podcast series, complete with playlists.
People’s Windrush Exhibition
October 2026
A multi-media exhibition with filmed interviews, photographs, and personal items and artefacts contributed by the community.
Windrush Archive
A Windrush Resource Log filled with stories, history and archival material of the Windrush Era.
Who it’s for
While this project platforms the children of the Windrush generation, this project warmly welcomes:
People of all backgrounds interested in British social history and Black British History.
People of all ages, with specific activities geared towards young people and older adults
Anyone who is curious about, or connected to the legacy of Windrush!
Get involved
Calling Artists and Writers! Submit your work to our Anthology
Join Our Cultural Heritage Workshops this Spring
Take part in the People’s Windrush Exhibition
We’d love for you to be part of this journey. For updates, opportunities, and event details, sign up to our mailing list, keep an eye on this page or get in touch:
📧 More information and general enquiries firstbornsecond.cc@gmail.com
📧 Roger Griffith, Lead Curator infocreativeconnex@gmail.com
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Recent Events
Babylon Film Screening
A screening at Easton Community Centre of this landmark film following Jamaican teenagers navigating brutality and prejudice in Thatcher’s London.
Beyond the Bassline
An exhibition at the Bristol Beacon to celebrate Black British music as a form of entertainment and vehicle for community, as well as a source of liberation, protest and education.
Remix: Race & Representation
A symposium at the Watershed, Bristol inviting dialogue on how archives can be reimagined to represent and amplify the experiences of global majority communities.
Partners
We are grateful to our partners for their continued support in our programme. If you or your organisation would like to get involved, please do get in touch.
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