Understanding Caribbean Families: Barrel Children & Generational Healing

On Sunday, 13th October, Reconnect JA hosted an intimate screening of the powerful documentary Barrel Children: The Families Windrush Left Behind at the East Dulwich Picturehouse & Café. The event explored the emotional and psychological impact of the Windrush migration on the families who remained in the Caribbean.

The evening began with the documentary screening, providing an strong foundation for the engaging panel discussion that followed. Moderated by Reconnect JA’s Founder and Initiative Lead, Reccarnei Phillipson, the panel featured:

• Nadine White, the documentary’s director and award-winning Race Correspondent for The Independent.

• Ntale Eastmond, BAM program manager at Mental Health Foundation UK, counsellor and psychotherapist

• Patricia Howell, CEO and Founder of Lite-Waves Therapeutic Education

• Christivie Manga, BLAM UK’s project manager, focusing on Black identity and education.

The discussion delved deeply into the “Barrel Children” phenomenon, highlighting how separation shaped identity, belonging, and intergenerational relationships within the Caribbean diaspora. The panellists unpacked the lingering effects of these experiences, emphasising the importance of acknowledging these narratives to foster healing and understanding.

Audience members were encouraged to share their own reflections, creating an open and heartfelt dialogue. The event provided an opportunity for the Caribbean community and allies to connect, reflect, and gain deeper insight into these complex histories.

Reconnect JA is proud to continue amplifying vital stories within the Caribbean diaspora, fostering spaces for education, healing, and cultural pride.