A timeline of key events and changes that have been brought about in Stephen Lawrence’s name.
Discover the pivotal moments from Stephen’s life and legacy by downloading our Stephen Lawrence Timeline (PDF).
Timeline 1974 – present
The Story of Stephen Lawrence
1974
Stephen Lawrence is born.
Loved by his family and friends, Stephen dreamed of becoming an architect.
1993
22 April 1993
Stephen Lawrence murdered.
Stephen Lawrence is killed in an unprovoked racist attack.
The Lawrence family meet Nelson Mandela.
1994
September 1994
A private prosecution is launched.
A private prosecution is launched by Stephen’s parents against three suspects. It fails in April 1996.
1997
July 1997
A public enquiry is announced.
A public enquiry is announced to look into the killing and subsequent police investigation.
1999
February 1999
Macpherson report published.
It accuses the Metropolitan Police of institutional racism and makes 70 recommendations, many aimed at improving police attitudes to racism.
2005
April 2005
Double jeopardy is scrapped.
The legal principle prevented suspects being tried twice for the same crime.
2008
Memorial opens
Doreen Lawrence opens the £10m Stephen Lawrence Centre in honour of her son.
2011
November 2011
Trial begins.
The trial of Gary Dobson and David Norris begins at the Old Bailey. Both men are found guilty of the murder of Stephen Lawrence and are given life sentences.
2018
22 April 2018
National day announced.
National day announced by Prime Minister Theresa May to commemorate Stephen Lawrence’s life. Stephen Lawrence Day will be celebrated every year on 22 April.