November 2022: Punjab Heritage Awareness and Appreciation Month

WHEREAS, Michigan is committed to educating citizens about the world’s diverse communities and religions, the value of religious diversity, tolerance grounded in First Amendment principles, and a culture of mutual understanding; and,

WHEREAS, this month, Michigan seeks to further the diversity of its community by granting its residents an opportunity to better understand, recognize, and appreciate the rich heritage & cultural history of Punjab and Punjabi Americans; and,

WHEREAS, the Punjab State derives its name, “The Land of Five Rivers,” from five full-bodied rivers – Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Jhelum, and Chenab – and is home to a lively, hospitable, and dynamic people in South Asia; and,

WHEREAS, Punjabi Culture is one of the oldest cultures of the world with a land of ethnic and religious diversity, having borne and shaped several religious movements that include Sikhism, Buddhism and Sufism. Its diversity and uniqueness are evident in the Punjabi poetry, philosophy, spirituality, education, artistry, music, fairs, festivals, cuisine, science, technology, military warfare, architecture, traditions, values, and history; and,

WHEREAS, Punjabi Language is the 10^th most widely spoken native language in the world with 120+ million speakers worldwide, the 4^th most spoken language in the United Kingdom, and the 3^rd most spoken native language after English and French in Canada; and,

WHEREAS, Punjab is one of the largest empires that was established by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, popularly known as “Sher-e-Punjab” or "Lion of Punjab," born in November of 1780, who ruled the northwest Indian subcontinent in the early half of the 19^th century. The Maharaja was an epitome of secularism as his army & kingdom included all religions such as Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and European Christians; and,

WHEREAS, the Punjab economy is founded in agriculture and for Punjabi farmers, farming is not only an occupation, but also a way of life which comprises of hard work, sharing, honesty, dignity, and honor. Other major industries include manufacturing, electrical goods, financial services, machine tools, textiles etc.; and,

WHEREAS, Punjabi Americans pursue diverse professions and make rich contributions to the social, cultural, and economic vibrancy of the United States, including service as members of the United States Armed Forces and significant contributions to our great nation including, but not limited to, as agriculture, construction, automotive, IT, hospitality, trucking, engineering, medicine, technology, and other small businesses;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 2022 to be Punjab Heritage Awareness and Appreciation Month in Michigan.