Brampton, Ontario (April 30, 2014): The World Sikh Organization of Canada congratulates the Sikh community of Ontario upon the conclusion of the first Sikh Heritage Month in the province. April 2014 marked the first time the month was celebrated in Ontario after the passing of Bill 52 the Sikh Heritage Month Act.
Sikh Heritage Month (Canada)
The Sikh Heritage Month Act was proposed by NDP MPP Jagmeet Singh (Bramalea- Gore Malton) and received the support of all three parties in the Ontario Legislature. Sikh Heritage Month, which will be marked every April, recognizes the contributions of the Sikh community to Canada and specifically the growth and prosperity of Ontario. During the month of April Sikhs celebrate Vaisakhi , the day on which the Order of the Khalsa was revealed and Sikhs were given a distinct identity with the Sikh articles of faith. Khalsa Day Parades are held in cities across Canada to commemorate the event.
WSO Ontario Vice President Prabmeet Singh Sarkaria said, “Sikh Heritage Month is an excellent opportunity for Sikhs in Ontario to share their faith and history with their neighbours. This year was the first time Sikh Heritage Month was celebrated in Ontario and we along with others in the community will be working to develop resources and educational programs so that we can provide even more content to the celebration of this month in future years.”
WSO President Dr. Amritpal Singh Shergill said, “we would like to congratulate MPP Jagmeet Singh and the Sikh community in Ontario for the successful completion of the first Sikh Heritage Month. Sikhs across Canada can take inspiration from this example and efforts should be made to celebrate and share the history of Sikhs in Canada with our friends in every province.”