SENATE RESOLUTION

8638

BySenator Shewmake

WHEREAS, Sikhism is a religion founded in the Punjab region of South Asia over five centuries ago and introduced to the United States in the 19th century; and

WHEREAS, Sikhism is the fifth largest religion in the world, with nearly 30,000,000 adherents from around the world, including approximately 700,000 members in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Sikh families in the United States pursue diverse professions and walks of life, making rich contributions to the economic vibrancy of the United States; and

WHEREAS, Washington State takes pride in being a place where all faiths and cultures are welcomed, respected, and celebrated; and

WHEREAS, During the month of April, the Sikh community celebrates Vaisakhi, also known as Khalsa Day, which marks the beginning of the harvest season and the Sikh New Year; and

WHEREAS, Vaisakhi is one of the most religiously significant days in Sikh history, commemorating the creation of the Khalsa, a fellowship of devout Sikhs, by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate of the state of Washington wish our Sikh American community a very joyous Vaisakhi Celebration.