title
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING SIKH AWARENESS AND APPRECIATION MONTH - APRIL 2026
WHEREAS, Sikhs have been living in the United States for more than 120 years; and
WHEREAS, during the early 20th century, thousands of Sikh Americans contributed to the nation’s growth by working on farms, in lumber mills and mines, and on the Oregon, Pacific & Eastern Railroad; and
WHEREAS, Sikh Sajna Diwas (Sikh Foundation Day) marks the historic day in 1699 when Guru Gobind Singh Ji established the Khalsa at Anandpur Sahib, signifying the birth of the Khalsa Panth and inspiring Sikhs to live with courage, equality, and faith; and
WHEREAS, celebrated alongside Vaisakhi, this day is honored through prayers, community service, and remembrance of the Panj Pyare, reinforcing the values of unity, sacrifice, and righteousness; and
WHEREAS, there are an estimated 500,000 Sikhs in the United States, including more than 25,000 in the State of Illinois, and Sikhism is the world’s fifth-largest religion with over 25 million followers globally; and
WHEREAS, Sikh Americans serve in a wide range of professions, contributing significantly to the social, cultural, and economic vitality of the United States, including service in the Armed Forces, leadership in agriculture, information technology, small business, hospitality, transportation, medicine, legal services, and other fields; and
WHEREAS, Sikh Americans distinguish themselves through their commitment to service, equality, and respect for all humanity; and
WHEREAS, it is vital to recognize and uplift local Sikh community members and organizations in Cook County, including Gurmeet Singh Dhalwan, Founder President of the Midwest Punjabi Association; Bhai Bhagat Singh Dhalwan, Mentor of the Midwest Punjabi Association; Illinois Sikh Community Center; Jasbir Kaur Maan of Swera; and Sikh Religious Society; and
WHEREAS, Cook County remains committed to the values of religious diversity, inclusion, and mutual understanding, and stands against all forms of discrimination and violence; and
WHEREAS, Cook County celebrates its rich diversity and continues to promote awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the history and contributions of Sikh Americans;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners do hereby proclaim the month of April 2026 to be Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month in Cook County.
end