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Outline. Sikhism – The Beliefs, The People and the Articles Of Faith U.S. and International Law Regarding the Sikh Articles of Faith Bias/Hate Crimes Against the Sikhs Proposed Plan Of Change – Education and Awareness. What is Sikhism?.

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Outline

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  1. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  2. Outline • Sikhism – The Beliefs, The People and the Articles Of Faith • U.S. and International Law Regarding the Sikh Articles of Faith • Bias/Hate Crimes Against the Sikhs • Proposed Plan Of Change – Education and Awareness American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  3. What is Sikhism? • Religion founded in India (1469) by Guru Nanak and built upon by the nine prophet -teachers (Gurus) who succeeded him. • The word “Sikh” means disciple or student. • One of the world’s youngest monotheistic religions. • Sikhism is distinct from Hinduism or Islam - with its own unique, divine scripture embodied in the Guru Granth Sahib, The Eternal Guide (Guru) of the Sikh Faith. Guru Granth Sahib American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  4. What is Sikhism? • Fifth largest religion. • Universal religion which is open to all - recognizes & respects all human beings as equals. • Does not recognize race, class, caste, or other earthly distinctions between people. • Recognizes men & women as equal in all aspects of life. • Sikh place of worship is called ‘Gurudwaara’ American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  5. Basic Beliefs • There is Only One God. • Equality of mankind. • Freedom and Liberty for all. • Speaking out against injustice and standing up for the defenseless is considered a Sikh’s duty. • Condemnation of superstitions and blind rituals. • Intoxications such as alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs are strictly forbidden. • Cutting of one’s hair is also strictly forbidden. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  6. Who Are the Sikhs? American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  7. Who are the Sikhs? • 25 million Sikhs worldwide have their roots in the region of Panjab, meaning the ‘Land of the 5 rivers’, located in Northern India. • Over 5 million Sikhs live outside of India in Europe, Canada and the United States. • Two Major U.S.Areas In Which Sikhs Reside – Approximately 125,000 Sikhs reside in the Tri-State Area and 250,000 Sikhs reside in California. • Sikh Americans share a deep pride of their new homeland and the values ingrained into the fabric of the nation by the founding fathers. • The first doctor to Ground Zero on 9/11/01 was a Sikh. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  8. Who are the Sikhs? • All Sikh men are identifiable by their distinctive Turbans (Dastaar). 99% of people in the U.S. that wear Turbans (Dastaar) are Sikhs. • Many Sikh women wear ‘smaller’ Turbans (Dastaar) to keep their head covered as well. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  9. Who are the Sikhs? • Sikhs have fought in both World Wars with the Allied troops. • Sikh regiments were instrumental in valiantly defeating the Nazis. • Sikhs fought in one of the world’s most famous battles – The Battle of Saraghari, in which 21 Sikhs fought against 12,000 Afghan Tribals. Sikh Troops in France during WWI Picture courtesy of www.sikhs.org American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  10. Prominent Sikhs In the News • Dr. Manmohan Singh – 14th Prime Minister of India. • Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany - ‘Father’ / Creator of Fiber Optics. • Fauja Singh – 92 Year Old Record Setting Marathon Runner (pictured right). American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  11. Where do Sikhs Live? • India • United States of America • Canada • England • Australia • Africa • Brazil • All over the World… American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  12. Basic Beliefs • ‘Naam Japna’ - Remembrance and meditation on God. • ‘Vand Kae Chhakna’ – to share with others before partaking yourself. Encompasses the principles of living as an inspiration to others and supporting the community (i.e. giving to charity). • ‘Kirat Karni’ – Earning a honest living through hard work. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  13. Traditional Sikh Greetings • Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh – The Khalsa (Sikhs) belong to the Almighty Creator, Victory to the Almighty Creator. • Sat Sri Akaal – True and Forever is the Timeless Lord. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  14. Gurudwara – The Sikh Place Of Worship • Guru – The Enlightener. • Dwara – Door. • Gurudwara – Door of the Enlightener. • At least 10 Gurudwaras in New York (bottom picture, Glen Cove Gurudwara). • Historic Gurudwara – Harimandir Sahib (top picture) also known as the ‘Golden Temple’, in Amritsar, India. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  15. Inside the Gurudwara • All who enter the Gurudwara must remove their shoes and cover their heads as a sign of respect. • All entrants must not carry any tobacco/alcohol/narcotics on their person and should be free of intoxication. • Sikhs will bow before the Guru Granth Sahib, which rests on the central canopied throne and give an offering. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  16. Sikhs engage in spiritual hymn singing known as Keertan (akin to a church choir) as part of the Gurudwara service. An integral part of the services held at a Gurudwara. Tabla (drums) and a harmonium are usually used during the service, though other instruments are also utilized. Proper conduct mandates one to remain silent and meditative during Keertan. Sikh Prayer Service - Keertan American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  17. Langar – The Gurudwara’s Free Kitchen • Established by the Gurus, who themselves performed service for their Sikhs. • Langar – the great equalizer. All are required to sit at one level and partake of food, regardless of race, gender, creed, etc. • Each Gurudwara will have Langar (free kitchen), from which a devotee or visitor can have free food. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  18. Nishan Sahib - The Sikh Flag • Flown outside every Sikh Gurudwara. • Represents the sovereignty and sanctity of a Sikh place of worship. • Carries the Sikh Insignia – the Khanda American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  19. Prominent Sikh Insignia The two most common insignia seen at Sikh Gurudwaras, Sikh homes, Sikh events and may be worn by Sikhs on their person. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  20. Ik Onkaar • Ik Onkaar – The One Almighty Creator. The first and central theme of Sikhism, representing the One All-Encompassing God. • Given the distinction of being the opening words of the Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh Scriptures) for all Sikhs to meditate upon. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  21. The Sikh Insignia • Composed of four symbols. • The Khanda (double-edge sword) – represents the creative power of the Almighty Creator. The whole Sikh insignia may also be referred to as a Khanda. • The Chakkar (circular quoit) – represents the infinite nature of the Almighty Creator with no beginning or end. • Miri and Piri (two outlying swords) – represent the two aspects of a Sikh’s life. Piri represents the spiritual element and Miri represents the temporal element. • A Sikh is to embody both concepts of Miri and Piri, but the Piri (spiritual) aspect is always to dominate and to guide the actions of the Miri (temporal) element. • Therefore, a Sikh is to be a Saint-Soldier at all times. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  22. Sikh Day Parade – An Annual Tradition • Sikh Day Parade – held annually in New York City in April. • Draws tens of thousands of participants. • Show of Sikh Americans’ solidarity and unity and an opportunity to raise awareness about the Sikhs. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  23. Mandatory Articles of the Sikh Faith Mandated by religion, all initiated Sikhs must carry the five articles of faith, “Have, on your person, at all times, the five Ks:  • the Keshas (unshorn hair). • the Kirpan (sheathed sword) • the Kachhehra -- drawers like garment may be made from any cloth, but its legs should not reach down to below the shins; • the Kanga (comb). • the Karha (steel bracelet)." Reference: The Sikh Rehit Maryada (Code of Conduct) American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  24. Articles of Faith: The 5 K’s • Kara – Steel bracelet usually worn on the right hand. A constant reminder of the commitment of a Sikh to God. • Kanga – Small comb worn in a Sikh’s hair. Represents the importance of discipline and is used to keep the hair clean and untangled. • Kirpan – Ceremonial scimitar represents dignity and the Sikh’s defence of justice. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  25. Articles of Faith: The 5 Ks • Kachhehra – Long boxer-like underwear. Represents the commitment of a Sikh to monagamy and moral conduct. • Kesh - Long unshorn hair. The keeping of hair in its natural state is regarded as living in harmony with the will of God. Hair on the head is wrapped under a Turban (Dastaar), which represents an individual’s dignity and self-respect. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  26. The Kirpan • 'KIRPA' + 'AAN'. 'Kirpa' means an act of kindness, or mercy; and 'aan' means honor and self-respect. • To call it a dagger or knife is wrong and insulting, as the Kirpan functions differently from a knife or dagger. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  27. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  28. Sikh Dress Code Kirpan – (Sword): Defence of Truth Kara - (Iron/steel Bracelet): Reminder of Righteous Conduct Kesh– (Uncut Hair): Acceptance of a Gift From God. Hair On Head Kept Under a Turban (Dastaar) is Sign of Dignity and Self-Respect. Kacherra– (Long Underpants): Monogamy and Moral Conduct Kanga - (Comb): Cleanliness American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  29. Kirpan Facts • US, Canadian and British courts have always upheld a Sikh’s right to wear the Kirpan as an article of faith • Sikhs have won all known court cases brought against the wearing of the Kirpan in the United States and Canada; some cases have been dismissed by the courts that have recognized it as an article of faith. • According to the Sikh code of conduct, the Kirpan is to be worn using a Gatra (a strap that enables a Kirpan to be suspended near one's waist or tucked inside one's belt).  The implication of this explicit requirement is that the Kirpan cannot be worn as a miniaturized symbol.  To neglect to wear one or more of the Five Ks is a serious transgression of the Sikh code of conduct. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  30. Kirpan and Turban (Dastaar) – Targets of Litigation • The Turban (Dastaar) and the Kirpan have been the target of many unfair prosecutions. • Both are articles of the Sikh faith that cannot be compromised as per the tenets of the faith. • Outcome of litigation in the U.S. has been overwhelmingly in support of the Turban (Dastaar) and the Kirpan. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  31. U.S. Law and Sikhism • The U.S. Constitution affords a general and broad protection for the free exercise of one’s religion. • First Amendment – “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof”. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  32. Turban (Dastaar) Landmark case: Mr. Jasjit Singh Jaggi v. NYPD - resulted in allowing Sikh police officers to join the police force with a Turban (Dastaar) as part of the uniform. Mr. Sat Hari Singh v MTA – the MTA retracted its ban on the Turban (Dastaar) and Sikh plaintiffs are currently pursuing litigation against the MTA. Kirpan Landmark cases - State of New York, Plaintiff, v. Partap Singh, State Of Ohio v. Dr. Harjinder Singh – both resulted in the courts upholding the right of a Sikh to wear the Kirpan. Sikh organizations’ efforts – have led to the dropping of charges against Sikhs in Kirpan cases – examples include State of Michigan v. Bhagwant Singh, Oregon v. Gurpal Singh, State of California v. Kamaldeep Singh, New York v. Kashmir Singh). Turban (Dastaar) And Kirpan – U.S. Law American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  33. British Law and Sikhism • Specific mention in statutes of Sikh Turban (Dastaar) and Kirpan. • Employment Act of 1989 – prevents discrimination against the Sikhs by granting exemptions from hardhat requirements. • Road Traffic Act 1988, Section 16(2) – grants exemption to a Sikh from wearing a helmet while on a motorcycle. • Criminal Justice Act 1988, Section 139 – allows a Sikh to carry a Kirpan in public places, including schools, courts, and Houses of Parliament, for religious reasons. • British law recognizes the wearing of the Sikh articles of faith as right of a Sikh to manifest his religion. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  34. Canadian Law and Sikhism • Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms – akin to the Bill of Rights of the U.S. and grants broad protection for religious practice. • Bhinder v. C.N.R. – allows exemption to a Sikh from hardhat requirements and prevents workplace discrimination due to the Turban (Dastaar). • Grant et al. v. Attorney General (Canada) – allows Sikh police officers to wear a Turban (Dastaar) while on duty and as part of the uniform. • The League for Human Rights of B’Nai Brith Canada v.Syndicat Northcrest; and Syndicat Northcrest v. Amselem – Canadian Supreme Court ruled courts do not have the duty nor the authority to question the validity of a religious belief. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  35. Sweden and Ireland • The Swedish Government has made a positive move by allowing and respecting the Sikh Turban (Dastaar) and distinct appearance. • Swedish born, Jaspal Singh, 17 years old, is able to work in the Swedish military defense service with his Turban (Dastaar) and untied flowing beard. • Ireland has proposed a national policy that would allow Sikhs to wear turbans as part of the police force. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  36. U.S. Hate Crimes Post 9/11 – A Sampling • Balbir Singh Sodhi fatally shot in Mesa, AZ – first reported fatality of post-9/11 violence in the U.S. • Rajinder Singh Khalsa – beaten severely by a group of assailants resulting in multiple fractures. • Sikh family was assaulted by three males outside their home in Queens, New York. The men yelled “Bin Laden go back to your country” and held and punched adult family members in full view of their children . • Hate Crimes were predominantly crimes of ignorance – the need for awareness. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  37. Bias/Hate Crimes – A Persistent Problem • War On Terror, the London bombings and the still-recent 9/11 terror attacks - bias attacks against the Sikhs remain a serious problem. • Sikh organizations – resolute in educating and raising awareness about Sikhism. • At a minimum, Sikh organizations must work with government officials to create awareness about Sikhism. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  38. The Plan • Close collaboration between the ASCF and New York City officials. • Production of education materials for the City Administration for education and awareness. • ASCF to serve as a liaison between NY City and the Sikh community. • Presentations and seminars on Sikhism to NY City Departments and agencies. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  39. We Need You!!! • Cooperation and collaboration is the key to a more educated and sophisticated New York City. • The ASCF and its member organizations are ready to offer whatever assistance and consultation that is necessary. • Goal – A permanent alliance with the New York City administration to serve the needs of New York residents as best as possible. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  40. CURRENT LIST OF SUPPORTING MEMBERS OF AMERICAN SIKH CONSULTATIVE FORUM (ASCF) • American Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee (a representative body of Sikh Gurdwaras in the United States) • Afghan Sikh Association • Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Society • Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center Inc. • Dashmesh Sikh Center, Plainview, NY • Dhan Dhan Baba Buddha Sahebji Sikh Association • Flushing Gurdwara Saheb • Guru Gobind Singh Study Circle • Panthic Cause • Ravidas Temple • Sant Sagar • Sikh Association of Staten Island, Inc. • Sikh Cultural Society Richmond Hill (Gurdwara Sahib) • Sikh Heritage Foundation • Sikh Youth Of America • Sukhmani Society • The Sikh Coalition • The Sikh Forum Inc., Glencove • UNITED SIKHS American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  41. ?? QUESTIONS ?? American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  42. Thank You !! American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

  43. American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF)TEL: 188 645 5581contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org American Sikh Consultative Forum (ASCF) TEL : 188 645 5581 contact@americansikhconsultativeforum.org

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