Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join the Sikh community in celebrating Vaisakhi. On April 14, Sikhs around the world, including thousands and thousands in California's San Joaquin Valley, will celebrate the Vaisakhi festival. This week, we welcome members of the Congressional Sikh Caucus to the Hill to participate in those celebrations. The festival marks the new year and the beginning of the spring season for the global Sikh community. The date of the Vaisakhi festival has tremendous significance in Sikhism. The festival commemorates the year 1699, when Sikhism emerged as a collective faith in what is now modern-day India. It also celebrates both the birthday of the 10th Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh, and the foundation of the Khalsa Panth, the Sikh brotherhood. Sikhs across the globe celebrate this day with enthusiasm and joy. I know they do in the rich San Joaquin Valley that is home to so many who are farmers, businesspeople, and community leaders. I have the honor to represent them and to celebrate with them. This festival models what all cultures strive for: strong communities coming together to celebrate progress, renew its dedication to helping one another, and peace. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to please join me in celebrating this special tradition in the Sikh community. Women Trailblazers”