US Congressmen introduce resolution to recognise 1984 Sikh genocide
- In Reports
- 02:04 PM, Oct 26, 2024
- Myind Staff
On Friday, four US Congressmen, including the co-chairs of the Sikh American Congressional Caucus, introduced a resolution aimed at formally recognising and commemorating the Sikh Genocide of 1984. Congressman David Valadao, co-chair of the Caucus, expressed the importance of the resolution, stating, “Sadly, many Sikhs have been targeted for their religious beliefs throughout history, including during the 1984 genocide.” He emphasised his solidarity with the Sikh community in their demand for recognition and accountability for this horrific event, describing the resolution as a “small but important step to commemorate this tragedy and honour the innocent victims who lost their lives while practising their faith.”
As the 40th anniversary of the Sikh genocide approaches, Congressman Jim Costa, also co-chair of the Sikh Caucus, reflected on the significance of this recognition. “This is not just a distant tragedy — it hits home for us here in the San Joaquin Valley, where so many of our Sikh neighbours have shared their stories of loss, survival, and resilience. This resolution is more than a symbol — it’s a time to recognise this horrific time that our Sikh community experienced,” Costa remarked.
Valadao and Costa were joined in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Josh Harder, Vince Fong, and John Duarte in introducing the resolution.
The resolution has garnered support from various organisations, including the American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, American Sikh Caucus Committee, Ensaaf, Jakara Movement, Sikh American Legal Defence and Education Fund (SALDEF), Sikh Coalition, Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC), and United Sikhs. Gudev Singh, acting president of the American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (AGPC), stated, “This resolution marks a pivotal moment in our quest for justice and truth. The American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, representing Sikh religious institutions across the nation, has long advocated for the recognition of the atrocities committed during the 1984 Sikh Genocide.”
Pritpal Singh, founder of the American Sikh Caucus Committee, described the resolution as a turning point in their decades-long pursuit of justice and recognition. “For too long, the horrors of 1984 have been hidden from the global stage. Today, we honour the memory of those who suffered and ensure their voices will never be silenced,” he expressed.
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