Pupils from Torfaen primary schools met at the Parkway Hotel in Cwmbran for a Windrush celebration organised by Cwmbran Community Council as part of Black History Month.
The event featured artwork, poetry and stage presentations created by children during a Windrush Black History research project.
Pupils shared their work with several WindRush Elders who were special guests.
The theme for this year’s event, “Welcome and Sharing”, inspired reflections on migration, identity and inclusion.
Noah, a Year 6 pupil from Blaenavon Primary, said: “It’s been amazing learning how people who faced discrimination became part of Great Britain and are now accepted for who they are.”
Leia, Year 3, from Blenheim Road Primary, said: “I really enjoyed hearing stories I hadn’t learned about before. People should never be judged by their race, colour or religion. I loved writing my poem and sharing my work.”
George, Year 6, from Henllys Church in Wales, said: “I loved learning about the Caribbean people who came to help rebuild our country after the war. I wrote a poem about their journey and drew the Empire Windrush ship they travelled on.”
Musicians Holly Williams and Tallullah Blu performed original pieces during the event.
Schools taking part included Blaenavon, New Inn, Henllys Church in Wales, The Federation of Blenheim Road & Coed Eva, Cwmffrwdoer, Our Lady of the Angels, Llanyrafon and Ysgol Gymraeg Cwmbran.
Sean Wharton, community councillor, said: “It’s fantastic to see so many schools taking part in one of Torfaen’s rare occasions where people of different races, cultures, and heritages come together as one.
“The research, creative work and performances were of an exceptionally high standard, and it was clear that the schools, teachers and pupils had invested a great deal of time and care into the project.
“What also came through strongly is that Black history is an integral part of Welsh history and recognising that is vital to understanding our shared past.”