February

Following the path of the Punjabi soldiers, a small group of Sikhs from the rural region of Punjab, India began their journey towards the great promise of abundance in BC. Some were discharged British soldiers, but the majority were young labourers who came in search of work primarily in the lumber, agricultural and railway industries.

As word spread to Punjab about the potential for job opportunities, the pace of immigration steadily increased. By the end of 1908, over 5,000 Indian men arrived in BC, with approximately 3,000 of them continuing to the US {Library and Archives Canada}.

As Sikhs, the men wore turbans and kept beards which were distinctive characteristics of their faith. Mainstream media reported the immigration influx from India as a "Hindoo Invasion" which was reflective of the overtly racist climate of the times. Prejudiced and unwelcoming attitudes towards the Indian diaspora worsened as many men were physically assaulted, barred from entering public facilities, and continued to be negatively portrayed in the press.