US lawmakers wish Sikh Americans joyous Vaisakhi

Thirteen members of the US House of Representatives have co-sponsored a House resolution wishing the Sikh American community a joyous Vaisakhi, the Indian harvest festival that also marks the creation of the Khalsa in 1699.

"I proudly represent one of the largest Sikh communities in the nation. For decades, we have confronted the challenges of California together, including education and our current drought," said House member John Garamendi, lead sponsor of the resolution.

Other co-sponsors included the lone Indian-American House member Ami Bera, Judy Chu, David Valadao Joseph Crowley, Doug LaMalfa, Eric Swalwell, Raul Grijalva (AZ), Sheila Jackson Lee, Dina Titus, Barbara Lee, Jackie Speier and Rush Holt.

The resolution noted that "Sikhs in the United States pursue diverse professions and walks of life, making rich contributions to the economic vibrancy of the United States as farmers, engineers, doctors, scientists, and business owners."

It also noted that "Sikh Americans continue to make strides toward securing religious liberty as patriotic members of the United States Armed Forces.

"We are grateful to the resolution sponsors for highlighting the important contributions of Sikh Americans to their communities in all walks of life," said Simran Kaur, Advocacy Manager for the Sikh Coalition.

"Sikhs are an integral part of the American fabric, and we look forward to celebrating Vaisakhi with our fellow Americans," she said.