Stephen Lawrence was a black British teenager who was murdered in an unprovoked racially motivated attack while waiting for a bus in Eltham on the evening of 22 April 1993.

His death and the subsequent police investigation raised serious issues about police practice, highlighting institutional racism within the police, and wider attitudes in this country.

In the wake of Stephen’s murder, activists drove forward anti-racism and equality reforms, changing the law, practice and attitudes. That is Stephen’s legacy.

We know there is further yet to go. Racial prejudice still exists in this country and everyday discrimination and harassment are still happening in our workplaces. Community is working in partnership with Baroness Doreen Lawrence OBE, Stephen’s mother and a member of Community, to raise awareness and to help us all to take practical steps towards change, in Stephen’s memory.

Stephen Lawrence Day was established by the then Prime Minister Theresa May in 2019, on the 25th anniversary of Stephen’s death. It is a day dedicated to Stephen’s memory that also allows people to reflect upon the part we all play in creating a society in which everyone can flourish.

Community union is raising money for the newly formed Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation which uses Stephen's legacy to inspire young people in living their best lives, in classrooms, communities and careers. Please give whatever you can spare to fund this important work.