Our Bureau
Ottawa
With roots dating back to the 1800s, April is Sikh Heritage Month in Canada, a time to celebrate and honor the rich history and culture of Canada’s Sikh community.
“Eight lakh Sikhs call Canada their home. We have the largest Sikh diaspora, with roots of the first Sikh in Canada dating back to the 1800s,” said Punjab-origin MP from Brampton West, Kamal Khera. She represents Canada’s ruling Liberal party. Mayor of Brampton, Patrick Brown, said, “We celebrate 10 years of Sikh Heritage Month in Ontario this year.” Another MP Francesco Sorbara said, “During this month, we recognize contributions to our country by Canadian Sikhs.”
Among many of the events listed, a special event will be hosted to award Gurbax Singh Malhi, the key to Brampton city on April 18. As a mark of respect for second largest Sikh population in the world, the Mississauga Civic Centre clock tower was lit with orange, part of the city’s Community Recognition Program.
According to Sikh Heritage British Columbia, its philosophy is providing a space where the Sikh community can connect with each other and with neighbouring communities to help each other prosper, learn, and grow. Its promise is, ‘Create a space where Sikhs and non-Sikhs can come together to create connections and relationships for prosperity’.
