April 2025: Sikh Appreciation and Awareness Month

WHEREAS, Sikhs have been living in the United States for more than 100 years, and during the early 20^th century, thousands of Sikh Americans worked on farms, in lumber mills and mines, and on the Oregon, Pacific, and Eastern railroad; and,

WHEREAS, Sikhism is the fifth largest religion in the world, and today, there are more than 30 million Sikhs worldwide and an estimated 500,000 Sikh Americans; and,

WHEREAS, Vaisakhi is one of the most historically significant days of the year for Sikhs and is celebrated in the month of April; and,

WHEREAS, 2025 is the 556^th birthday of the first of ten gurus and founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak. This day is celebrated for Sikhs in Michigan and worldwide as Guru Nanak’s Gurpurab and is one of the most important dates in the Sikh calendar; and,

WHEREAS, Sikh Americans add to the social, cultural, and economic vibrancy of the United States through their service in uniform and invaluable contributions to our great nation in agriculture, information technology, small businesses, hospitality, trucking, medicine, and technology; and,

WHEREAS, Sikh Americans foster respect among all people through their faith and service; and, 

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

WHEREAS, the State of Michigan seeks to further the diversity of its community and afford all residents the opportunity to better understand, recognize, and appreciate the rich history and experiences of Sikh Americans;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2025 as Sikh Appreciation and Awareness Month in Michigan.