*Administration of Barack Obama, 2014 *

**Statement on the Anniversary of the Birth of the Founder of Sikhism **

*November 6, 2014 *

I want to congratulate our Sikh friends in the United States and around the world on the anniversary of the birth of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev Ji. During his lifetime in the 15th and 16th centuries, Guru Nanak traveled throughout the region and world promoting equality, diversity, compassion, and tolerance, which became the core principles of Sikhism. The Sikh American community enriches the United States every day with its embodiment of these values, which are shared not just by Sikhs, but by all Americans.

*Categories:* Statements by the President : Sikhism, birth of founder, anniversary*.*

*Subjects:* Holidays and special observances : Sikhism, anniversary of founder's birth.

*DCPD Number:* DCPD201400823.