Proclamation
Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month
November 2023
Whereas, Sikhs have been living in the United States for more than 100 years, those who originated in Punjab, India, first entered California in 1899 through the Angel Island Immigration Station in San Francisco, California and the Sikh pioneers initially worked on railroad construction projects and in lumber mills; and Whereas, Sikhism is the fifth largest religion in the world and today, there are more than 23 million Sikhs worldwide and an estimated 280,000 Americans of Sikh origin, comprising nearly 40 percent of the nation's estimated Sikh population, residing in California alone; and Whereas, California and our nation are at once blessed and enriched by the unparalleled diversity of our residents, Sikh Americans throughout California celebrate the coronation of Sikh scripture and other Sikh festivals at the gurdwaras and through parades in cities across California and the United States; and Whereas, Sikh Americans pursue diverse professions and walks of life, including service as members of the United States Armed Forces and have made significant contributions to our great nation in agriculture, trucking, medicine and technology, and have distinguished themselves by fostering greater respect among all people through faith and service; and Now, Therefore, I Gary Singh, Mayor of the City of Manteca, on behalf of City Council, do recognize the month of November 2023, as Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month, and encourage all residents to celebrate the opportunity to better understand, recognize, and appreciate the rich history and shared principles of Sikh Americans.
DATE: November 7, 2023
___________________________
Mayor Gary Singh
ATTACHMENT 1
Mayor Singh • Vice Mayor Morowit • Councilmember Breitenbucher • Councilmember Nuño • Councilmember Halford