Claudia Jones

Biography

Claudia Jones came to Britain after her deportation from the United States and transformed herself into a leading journalist and community organizer, giving a voice to Caribbean migrants and others whose stories too often went unheard. Through the pages of the West Indian Gazette she reported on struggles and joys alike, insisting that Britain could only thrive when it embraced the talents of all its residents.

She also worked tirelessly to build cultural bridges, helping to found a celebration that would become the Notting Hill Carnival and serving as a tireless advocate for housing, health, and labor rights before her untimely death; her gravesite at Highgate Cemetery is visited by generations who continue to find courage and inspiration in her example.