According to reports, a historic cross-party event was held in the UK Parliament to reflect on Anglo-Sikh history and to explore issues connected to British Sikhs. The event was hosted at the reception of the Speaker’s House at the Palace of Westminster by Preet Kaur Gill MP. The guests included cross party leaders as well as prominent members of the Sikh community.
Ms. Gill and principal adviser of the Sikh Federation (UK) Dabinderjit Singh OBE reflected on key moments from throughout Anglo-Sikh history over the last 200 years. “Sikh history is British history. To move forward it is important to acknowledge and understand the historic injustices and challenges Sikhs have faced while building on the great successes in Anglo-Sikh history over the past 200 years. That starts with open engagement and an honest reckoning with our country’s past. Across the globe, Governments should appreciate the enormous contribution Sikhs make to the world, working in collaboration with them to realise their ethos for the betterment of all.”
Coinciding with Saragarhi Day, which remembers the sacrifice of 21 Sikh soldiers in the battle of Saragarhi in 1897, as well as the 20th anniversary of 9/11, speakers touched on both the present day and historic contributions and challenges facing the Sikh community.
(By Pramod Thomas, Eastern Eye)