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DuPage County proclaims April Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month; Sikh leaders describe faith's emphasis on equality
Summary
The DuPage County Board on April 8 adopted a proclamation recognizing April as Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month in Illinois and heard remarks from Sikh community leaders about the faith's history, teachings and local contributions.
The DuPage County Board on April 8 unanimously adopted a proclamation recognizing April as Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month and invited local Sikh leaders to accept the honor.
The board read a proclamation noting Sikh presence in the United States for more than a century and referencing statewide recognition of April for Sikh awareness. The proclamation cited roughly 25,000 Sikh residents in Illinois and described Sikhs' contributions to U.S. agriculture, technology, small business and military service.
Bhai Mahinder Singh, identified as the head granthi of the Illinois Sikh Community Center in Wheaton, addressed the board and urged attendees to practice equality and humility. "One of the things that Sikhism teaches me is that I'm no better than anybody else," Bhai Mahinder Singh said. He described Sikh teachings that emphasize food as a human right and recounted teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji about dignity and equality.
Why it matters: The proclamation and remarks acknowledge the county's religious and cultural diversity and encourage residents to learn about Sikh history and contributions. The proclamation was sponsored by County Board member Greg Swarzie.
What the board did: The board read and adopted the proclamation during the meeting; guests were invited to the podium to receive the document and comment. No formal policy or funding changes were proposed in connection with the proclamation.
Ending: County officials presented the proclamation and thanked the guests for attending; the board recessed into regular business after the ceremonial remarks.
