Home > Arts > Artists > Y > John Young
John Umelo an apprentice engineer from Nigeria, who can only get employment as a bus
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Memory Lane
John Umelo an apprentice engineer from Nigeria, who can only get employment as a bus
John Umelo an apprentice engineer from Nigeria, who can only get employment as a bus cleaner due to the colour bar. 11th March 1954
Freddie Reed
Daily Mirror
Mirrorpix
Birmingham
England
Media ID 21878642
© Mirrorpix
1954 Bame Black Asian Minority Ethnic Fifties Flat Guitar Windrush Windrush Generation Young Man Bed Sit Colour Bar West Midlands
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Africa
> Nigeria
> Related Images
> Arts
> Artists
> Y
> John Young
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> West Midlands
> Related Images
> Memory Lane Prints
> Mirror
> 1400to1499
> 01423
EDITORS COMMENTS
This powerful print captures John Umelo, an apprentice engineer from Nigeria, during a time of racial discrimination in England. It is the year 1954, and despite his qualifications and skills, John finds himself limited to employment as a bus cleaner due to the prevailing color bar. In this image, we see John sitting on his bed in a modest bed-sit flat in the West Midlands. The room is sparsely furnished with only a guitar leaning against the wall, symbolizing both his passion for music and perhaps an escape from the harsh reality he faces daily. John represents part of the Windrush generation - those who migrated from Caribbean countries to help rebuild post-war Britain. However, their contributions were often overlooked or undervalued due to systemic racism. The photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by black Asian minority ethnic individuals during this era. It highlights not only their resilience but also sheds light on society's need for change and equality. Freddie Reed's skillful composition captures both vulnerability and determination in John's expression. This print stands as a testament to history while urging us to reflect upon our progress towards inclusivity and justice for all members of society.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
