Recognizing November 2025 as
Sikh American Awareness and Appreciation Month
WHEREAS, Sikhism, founded more than 500 years ago by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the Punjab region of South Asia, is a faith rooted in equality, service, and spiritual devotion, and today stands as the fifth-largest religion in the world with over 25 million followers, including about 700,000 in the United States; and WHEREAS, Sikh Americans have been part of California’s story since 1899, entering through Angel Island and contributing greatly to our state’s economy, culture, and public life through service in healthcare, education, business, the arts, and government; and
WHEREAS, Sikh Americans have a proud record of military service, having served honorably in both World Wars and in every conflict since, upholding the values of justice, freedom, and equality; and WHEREAS, early Sikh pioneers helped build railroads, worked in lumber mills, and later became farmers in the Sacramento, San Joaquin, and Imperial Valleys, forming an essential part of California’s agricultural history; and
WHEREAS, the first Sikh house of worship in the United States—the Stockton Gurdwara—was established on October 14, 1912, and is now a California Historical Landmark; and today, California is home to more than 30 Gurdwaras, including the Gurdwara Sahib of Fremont and San Jose, two of the largest in North America; and
WHEREAS, Sikhs live by three guiding principles: Kirat Karo (earn an honest living), Naam Japo (remember and connect with God), and Wand Shako (share with and serve others)—values that continue to strengthen the diverse and caring community of Union City; and WHEREAS, Sikh Americans continue to enrich our society through hard work, compassion, and service, while reminding us of the power of faith, humility, and unity.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Union City hereby recognizes November 2025 as Sikh American Awareness and Appreciation Month and encourages all residents to learn about and celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of Sikh Americans in our community and across the nation.
DATED: October 28, 2025
GARY SINGH, Mayor
SCOTT SAKAKIHARA, Vice Mayor
LANCE NISHIHIRA, Councilmember
JAIME PATIÑO, Councilmember
JEFF WANG, Councilmember