Niki Sharma, Attorney General, has released the following statement in celebration of Sikh Heritage Month:

“April marks Sikh Heritage Month in British Columbia, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, resilient spirit and the many contributions Sikh communities have made to our province.

“Sikhs have been part of British Columbia’s story for well over a century, since the first Sikh migrants arrived at these shores in the early 1900s. Today, B.C. is home to one of the largest Sikh populations outside India and annually hosts the largest Vaisakhi celebrations in North America.

“As we celebrate this history, we must not forget the historical and continued challenges that Sikhs face. Decades ago, discrimination manifested in tragedies like the Komagata Maru incident and in exclusionary laws that denied Sikhs full participation in civic life. Discriminatory policies continue to be proposed elsewhere in Canada, including through laws that would ban some public-sector employees from wearing religious symbols, like turbans, at work. These are not laws people in B.C. want. That’s why we have intervened in the federal government’s challenge of Quebec’s Bill 21 before the Supreme Court of Canada. We are prepared to do all we can to defend Canadians’ rights to freedom of religion and expression.

“Here at home, we recently introduced the Safe Access to Places of Public Worship Act in response to targeted anti-Sikh hate. This law would establish protected access zones around places of worship, like gurudwaras and temples, and prohibit behaviour that intimidates, harasses or prevents people from attending services. This legislation was informed by ongoing discussions between the Province and faith leaders, including many Sikh leaders.

“This Sikh Heritage Month, we recommit not only to celebrating the diversity that enriches us, but also to defending the rights of everyone. The values at the heart of Sikhism are ones that we all share: equality and justice for all, and humility and service above all else. Together, we can ensure that our diversity remains one of our greatest strengths.

“Happy Sikh Heritage Month!”