Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 2026, as Sikh Heritage Month in the State of New York

Senate Resolution No. 1931

BY: Senator COONEY

        MEMORIALIZING  Governor  Kathy  Hochul to proclaim
        April 2026, as Sikh Heritage Month in the  State  of
        New York

  WHEREAS,  It  is  the  custom  of this Legislative Body to recognize
official months that honor the rich cultural, religious, and  historical
contributions  of communities that strengthen the fabric of the State of
New York; and

  WHEREAS,  The  Sikh  community  has  made  lasting  and   meaningful
contributions  to  the social, cultural, economic, and civic life of New
York State and the United States; and

  WHEREAS, Sikhism, founded in the Punjab region of  South  Asia  more
than  500  years  ago by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, is the world's fifth-largest
religion and  is  grounded  in  the  principles  of  equality,  service,
compassion, justice, and devotion to one God; and

  WHEREAS,  Central  to  the  Sikh  faith  is the practice of seva, or
selfless service, demonstrated through volunteerism, charitable  giving,
disaster  relief  efforts, and the operation of community kitchens known
as langar,  which  provide  free  meals  to  all  people  regardless  of
background or circumstance; and

  WHEREAS,  Sikh  Americans  have  served  with  distinction  in every
profession, including public service, healthcare,  education,  business,
law enforcement, transportation, and the armed forces; and

  WHEREAS,  New  York is home to a vibrant and growing Sikh population
whose  gurdwaras,  organizations,  and  families  continue   to   enrich
communities   across   the  State  through  faith,  culture,  and  civic
engagement; and

  WHEREAS, Despite these many contributions, Sikh individuals have too
often faced discrimination, bias, and misunderstanding, making education
and awareness all the more important; and

  WHEREAS, Designating  April  as  Sikh  Heritage  Month  provides  an
opportunity  to  celebrate  Sikh history and traditions, promote greater
understanding, and honor the many achievements of Sikh New Yorkers; now,
therefore, be it

  RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its  deliberations  to
memorialize  Governor  Kathy  Hochul  to  proclaim  April  2026, as Sikh
Heritage Month in the State of New York; and be it further

  RESOLVED, That copies of this  Resolution,  suitably  engrossed,  be
transmitted  to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York; and Sikh organizations and community leaders  throughout  the  New
York State.