August

In keeping with the usual pattern of immigration, the contribution and achievement of settlers over the decades has created a greater sense of belonging and a more confident generation of Canadian Sikhs. Resulting in a community today that is more self-assured in the knowledge that it has earned its place in Canadian society and commands acceptance on its own terms.

Within that context Sikhs in Canada have succeeded in challenging and influencing established policy on a number of issues affecting their identity - such as the right for Sikh officers serving in Royal Mounted Police to wear turbans, which was passed in 1990.

Whilst early pioneers felt pressured to fit in to society, every April on Vaisakhi, Canadian Sikhs celebrate their distinct identity in a very visible and public way through religious processions (Nagar Kirtan) in cities and towns up and down the country headed by the Panj Piare (five elected members of the community), which are attended by several hundred thousand Sikhs and non-Sikh alike.