Congressman John Garamendi Wishes the Sikh Community a Joyous Vaisakhi with Congressional Resolution

This weekend, Vaisakhi will be celebrated by Sikh Americans nationwide. In addition to commemorating the creation of the Khalsa, a fellowship of devout Sikhs, in 1699, it is also a long established harvest festival held throughout the Punjab region of South Asia. Celebration of Vaisakhi includes performing “Seva” (selfless service), such as providing free food to others and volunteering for community service projects. The Sikh American community also honors the occasion with major parades throughout the United States.

“The Sikh community is an integral part of American society, and they are an integral part of my Northern California Congressional District in particular,” said Congressman Garamendi. “I have worked with the community for decades on issues ranging from combating hate crimes to agriculture. I would like to wish Sikhs celebrating in California, across America, and around the world a joyous Vaisakhi. This festival embodies values that we all share, especially service and dedication to the well being of others.”

Simran Kaur, Advocacy Manager for The Sikh Coalition said, "We thank Representative Garamendi for introducing this resolution celebrating the heritage of Sikh Americans during Vaisakhi. It is a testament to the vibrancy of our pluralistic society that Americans from all backgrounds can celebrate with and learn about each other on occasions like Vaisakhi.”

Last month, Congressman Garamendi helped form a coalition encouraging the FBI to track hate crimes against Sikh, Hindu, and Arab-Americans with a letter signed by over 100 Members of Congress.

A PDF of resolution is linked here and its text immediately follows:

Honoring the Sikh community’s celebration of Vaisakhi

Whereas, Sikhism is a religion founded in the Punjab region of South Asia over five centuries ago and introduced to the United States in the 19th century;

Whereas, Sikhism is the fifth largest world religion with approximately 25 million adherents from diverse backgrounds throughout the world and 500,000 in the United States;

Whereas, Sikhs in the United States pursue diverse professions and walks of life, making rich contributions to the social, cultural, and economic vibrancy of our great nation, as well as the U.S. Armed Forces;

Whereas, Vaisakhi is one of the most religiously significant days in Sikh history, commemorating the creation of the Khalsa, a fellowship of devout Sikhs, by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699;

Whereas, the Sikh religion is based on a belief in one God and the equality of all human beings;

Whereas, the celebration of Vaisakhi includes performing Seva (selfless service), such as providing free meals to all visitors to Sikh Gurdwaras (Houses of Worship);

Therefore, be it resolved that the United States Congress wishes the Sikh American community a joyous Vaisakhi.