H.Res. 157 — Introduced in House

IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 157 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES April 12, 2013 Mr. Garamendi (for himself, Mr. Grijalva, Mr. Lewis, Ms. Speier, and Mr. Crowley) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform RESOLUTION Honoring the Sikh community’s celebration of Vaisakhi. Whereas Sikhism is a religion founded in the Punjab region of South Asia over five centuries ago and introduced to the United States in the 19th century; Whereas Sikhism is the fifth largest world religion with approximately 25 million adherents from diverse backgrounds throughout the world, including 500,000 adherents in the United States; Whereas Sikhs in the United States pursue diverse professions and walks of life, making rich contributions to the social, cultural, and economic vibrancy of the United States, including service as members of the United States Armed Forces; Whereas Vaisakhi is one of the most religiously significant days in Sikh history, commemorating the creation of the Khalsa, a fellowship of devout Sikhs, by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699; Whereas the Sikh religion is based on a belief in one God and the equality of all human beings; and Whereas the celebration of Vaisakhi includes performing Seva (selfless service), such as providing free meals to all visitors to Sikh Gurdwaras (Houses of Worship): Now, therefore, be it That the House of Representatives wishes the Sikh American community a joyous Vaisakhi.