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Snohomish County Council unanimously recognizes Vaisakhi with resolution
Summary
The Snohomish County Council passed Resolution 25-009 recognizing April 13, 2025, as Vaisakhi after public comments from Sikh community members praising the holiday's values.
On April 9, 2025, the Snohomish County Council voted to approve Resolution 25-009 recognizing April 13, 2025, as Vaisakhi in Snohomish County. The resolution passed unanimously.
The vote followed public comments from members of the Sikh community who described Vaisakhi as a celebration of equality, service and religious freedom. "American values are Sikh values," said Chirag Singh, a Bellevue resident, addressing the council. Singh said Vaisakhi "celebrates the creation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699" and praised the holiday's emphasis on equality and defending the innocent.
Harjeet Singh of Bothell also spoke in support of the resolution, thanking the council for what he called a "thoughtful and meaningful resolution recognizing Vaisakhi" and saying the recognition affirms "the inclusive spirit of Snohomish County." Both speakers described Vaisakhi as a day for reflection and recommitment to community service and equality.
Council members moved and seconded approval of Resolution 25-009. After the motion, the chair called for a vote; council members responded "aye," and the chair recorded the resolution as passed unanimously. Printed copies of the resolution were made available to attendees, and the council offered to take a photograph with guests after the meeting.
The formal action recorded in the meeting minutes was the adoption of Resolution 25-009; no additional policy directives or follow-up tasks tied to the resolution were recorded during the session.
