20 US Congressmen attend langar on Capitol Hill

Over 300 people, including 20 Congressmen, attended a langar (community meal) on Capitol here, a media report said on Thursday.

The langer was hosted by the Sikh American Legal Defence and Education Fund (SALDEF), a non-profit organisation, and Congressman Mike Honda on July 28, American Bazaar web portal reported on Wednesday.

Chairman of the House Budget Committee Paul Ryan, Indian-American Ami Bera, Vice-Chair of the Democratic Caucus Joe Crowley, and Representatives Jerry McNerne and Grace Meng were among the dignitaries who attended the event.

"I am honoured to once again host this event that celebrates the contributions of Sikh Americans by breaking bread with members of the Sikh Community, Congressional members, and staff," Honda said in a statement.

"Sikh Americans have a long history of innovative community engagement and leadership, from the Honorable Dalip Singh Saund -- who served for the US Congress and was one of the great pioneers -- to the advocates at SALDEF, who work to build dialogue, deepen our understanding, and uphold social justice for all Americans," he added.

"Having the occasion to share a meal as equals is a strong reminder about the values of equality and universal friendship."

Jaspreet Kaur, member of SikhLEAD, an SALDEF initiative, pointed out that even though Sikh-Americans have a 125-year history in the US, there are a lot of misperceptions about the community.

"Langar on the Hill is a significant opportunity for us to introduce our American history and Sikh values, including equality for all," she said in a statement.