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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
CELEBRATING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE SIKH COMMUNITY AND DESIGNATING APRIL AS SIKH AWARENESS AND APPRECIATION MONTH
WHEREAS, Sikhism, the world's fifth most popular religion, is a monotheistic faith that believes in equality and service; and
WHEREAS, the Sikh religion was founded more than 550 years ago; and
WHEREAS, Sikh immigrants came to the United States in the 1800s and it is estimated that 500,000 Sikhs now live in America; and
WHEREAS, Sikh Americans served in World War II in the United States Armed Forces, with more than 83,000 having died fighting and 109,000 wounded; and
WHEREAS, Sikh Americans have made valuable contributions to the social, cultural, and economic vibrancy of Cook County; and
WHEREAS, Sikh Americans have had success in the diverse fields of agriculture, information technology, small business, the hotel industry, trucking, and medicine while serving their communities; and
WHEREAS, the Sikh Religious Society, Palatine Gurdwara is located in the 14th District of Cook County, and follows the tenants of integrity, honesty, and transparency that reflect the spiritual, social, economic, and political heritage of the Sikh community; and
WHEREAS, Guru Nanuk, founder of Sikhism and whose birthday is celebrated by Sikhs on April 14th, notably said, "he who regards all men as equals is religious;" and
WHEREAS, Sikh Americans reject all social distinctions that produce inequities, including gender, race, religion and social status; and
WHEREAS, Cook County values religious diversity and is committed to the respect of all peoples; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby recognize Sikh American's influence on American history, achievement, culture, and innovation, and celebrate Sikh Americans for their countless contributions to communities across Cook County; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners designate the month of April as...
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