[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 1219 Introduced in House (IH)]

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119th CONGRESS
  2d Session
H. RES. 1219

  Expressing support for the month of April as ``Sikh History Month''.


_______________________________________________________________________


                    IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                             April 28, 2026

Mr. Fitzpatrick (for himself, Mr. Valadao, Ms. Chu, Mr. Gottheimer, Ms. 
  Norton, Mr. Norcross, and Mr. Thompson of California) submitted the 
following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Oversight 
                         and Government Reform

_______________________________________________________________________

                               RESOLUTION


 
  Expressing support for the month of April as ``Sikh History Month''.

Whereas Sikhism (Sikhi) is the fifth largest and the youngest of the world's 
        major religions, founded in the 15th century by Guru Nanak;
Whereas Sikhism teaches belief in one universal God, honest and truthful living, 
        and treating all people as equal, regardless of color, caste, gender, or 
        religion;
Whereas Sikhism emphasizes three main principles: remembering God (Naam Japo), 
        earning an honest living (Kirat Karni), and sharing (Vand Chakna) with 
        others;
Whereas the Sikh community has contributed significantly to society through 
        service, entrepreneurship, military service, and advocacy for human 
        rights;
Whereas designating the month of April as ``Sikh History Month'' offers an 
        important opportunity to recognize the history, culture, and 
        contributions of Sikhs while promoting human equality, awareness, 
        inclusion, and education;
Whereas April holds special significance in Sikh history because it often 
        coincides with Vaisakhi, one of the most important festivals in Sikhism;
Whereas Guru Nanak prescribed the foundational Sikh principles of worshiping One 
        God, earning an honest living through free enterprise, and sharing with 
        those less fortunate;
Whereas the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, demonstrated commitment to 
        freedom of religion for everyone by sacrificing His life;
Whereas the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, formally codified the Sikh 
        mandate to bear arms;
Whereas Vaisakhi commemorates the founding of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind 
        Singh;
Whereas Sikh history is deeply rooted in principles of equality, social justice, 
        and community service, Sikhism rejected caste discrimination and 
        promoted gender equality;
Whereas Sikh Gurus advocated for the dignity of all people regardless of 
        religion, background, or status;
Whereas one visible example of this commitment is the practice of langar, the 
        free community kitchen found in every Sikh place of worship known as a 
        Gurdwara;
Whereas, in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other countries, 
        ``Sikh History Month'' has become an opportunity for schools, 
        universities, and public institutions to educate communities about Sikh 
        identity and heritage;
Whereas ``Sikh History Month'' encourages dialogue, combats stereotypes, and 
        promotes respect for religious diversity;
Whereas Sikh Americans have served in the Armed Forces, contributed to business 
        and innovation, and played active roles in civic life;
Whereas recognizing the Sikh community's history helps ensure their stories and 
        contributions are included in the broader narrative of American 
        diversity;
Whereas education is a central benefit of establishing ``Sikh History Month'';
Whereas many people are unfamiliar with Sikh articles of faith, such as the 
        turban and the Five Ks, which symbolize commitment to Sikh values; and
Whereas increased awareness through public programs, classroom discussions, and 
        cultural events can reduce misunderstanding and foster mutual respect 
        among communities: Now, therefore, be it
    Resolved, That the House of Representatives expresses support for 
``Sikh History Month'' and as--
            (1) a recognition of the history, culture, heritage, and 
        contributions of the Sikh community;
            (2) a time to reflect on the principles of equality, social 
        justice, community service, and human dignity that are central 
        to Sikh history and tradition;
            (3) a time to promote awareness, inclusion, education, and 
        respect for religious diversity, to combat stereotypes and 
        misunderstandings, and to encourage appreciation of the 
        contributions Sikhs have made through service, 
        entrepreneurship, military service, humanitarian relief, and 
        advocacy for human rights; and
            (4) a time to recognize that the Sikh faith is grounded in 
        honest labor, religious liberty, and the duty to bear arms.
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