Northampton to mark Stephen Lawrence Day with Guildhall candlelight ceremony
Community partners, faith leaders and local representatives will gather at Northampton Guildhall Courtyard on Wednesday April 22, 2026 to mark Stephen Lawrence Day, organised by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC).
The midday event will feature a welcome from WNC Vice‑Chair Councillor Peter York, followed by speeches from Deputy Lord Lieutenant Dominic Goble JP, Superintendent Rachael Handford and MMAP youth charity founder Quinton Green. Father Oliver Coss, chair of the Northamptonshire Inter Faith Forum, will lead a prayer before a communal candle‑lighting; both battery‑operated and flame candles will be available for participants.
Stephen Lawrence, an aspiring architect, was murdered in a racist attack in 1993. His death exposed deep injustices and his legacy underpins the national Stephen Lawrence Day programme, led by the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation, which promotes learning, reflection and action against racism.
Refreshments will be served afterwards in the Judge’s Lodgings to allow attendees to reflect and continue conversations. Cllr Charlie Hastie and Superintendent Handford will speak on the council’s commitment to challenging racism and building a fairer, more inclusive community.