By Delta Dobson
Leicester’s Ugandan Asians, who were expelled by the country’s notorious President Idi Amin back in 1972, have held an event to mark the anniversary of their arrival in the city.
More than 27,000 Ugandan Asians arrived in the UK after the president ordered their expulsion from the country in an ethnic cleansing operation.
To commemorate the 50th anniversary a special event was held in Leicester at Sabras Radio, with many members of the community gathering to share their stories.
They were given 90 days to leave Uganda or they would face severe consequences. Several thousand came and settled in Leicester to re-build their lives.
The anniversary also celebrates the contributions made by Leicester’s Asian community over the last 50 years.
An exhibition is being expected to open in Leicester Museum and Art Gallery this July, after receiving funding from the National Lottery Heritage fund as well as Leicester’s Museum and Art Gallery.
Councillor Piara Singh Clair said: “Leicester’s Ugandan Asian population have helped forge a unique identity for the city over the last 50 years, and these commemorations will celebrate the huge contribution they have made to the city’s culture.”
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