Expressing support for the month of April as “Sikh History Month”.

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.