title
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
SIKH AWARENESS MONTH
WHEREAS, Sikhs have been living in the United States for more than 120 years, working to grow and strengthen the country since; and
WHEREAS, Sikh Americans have been contributing to the development of the United States since the mid-19th century with their work on farms, in lumber mills and mines, and on the Oregon, Pacific & Eastern Railway; and
WHEREAS, Sikhism is the fifth largest religion in the world today, with more than 25 million Sikhs worldwide, an estimated 500,000 in the United States, and 25,000 in the State of Illinois; and
WHEREAS, Sikh Americans continue to make rich contributions to the social, cultural, and economic vitality of the United States through their work in areas like agriculture, information technology, small business, hospitality, trucking, medicine, technology, and the United States Armed Forces; and
WHEREAS, Sikh Americans work to foster respect among all people through faith and service; and
WHEREAS, Cook County is committed to educating residents about the world’s religions, the value of religious diversity, tolerance grounded in First Amendment principles, a culture of mutual understanding, and the elimination of violence; and
WHEREAS, Cook County seeks to further the diversity of its community and afford all residents the opportunity to better understand, recognize, and appreciate the rich history and shared experiences of Sikh Americans;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and Cook County Board of Commissioners do hereby proclaim and officially support April to be Sikh Awareness and Appreciation month in 2023.
end