Page 27 - Poems by Alyson Malach - Childhood to Adulthood

We all did well in educa�on and employment

We managed our lives and gained some enjoyment.
But when he returned to the West Indies in ‘74?

He gave us kids some advice that we are forever grateful for

He told us to apply for Naturalisa�on.

In case the UK, in years to come, considered repatria�on

We all listened and did as we were advised.
We are grateful to dad for securing our adult lives.

Without this cer�ficate we could be on the plane

Never to step foot in the UK again

Our children too, are thankfully secure.

And their children’s lives are at risk no more.

They invited them in and treated them so badly.

They exploited their skills and would send them off gladly

Reduced them to tears, depression and mental ill health

Despite the West Indians propping up their wealth.

The hos�le environment that has now come about
Has created a situa�on of worry and doubt.

Worry about where West Indians’ lives will end

Because Britain, is no longer their friend.

My dad came here in 1955 on the UK’s invita�on.

The Windrush hos�lity is a direct result of this situa�on
We must all join together and support the fight.

And help West Indian families secure their rights.

Alyson Malach
April1 2019

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