Happy Vaisakhi! Today is the start of the Sikh New Year.
The religious festival marks the beginning of a solar new year for Sikhs and Hindus, and commemorates 1699 as the year of the formation of Sikhism as a collective faith.
“Wishing you a very happy Vaisakhi!” tweeted The Sikh Coalition, the largest such civil rights organization in the U.S. “Together are are creating a future with no limits for generations to come.”
While Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau broke out his Punjabi to wish everyone a happy Vaisakhi, American lawmakers of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) also welcomed Vaisakhi festivities Friday through statements.
“Sikh Americans have made innumerable contributions to strengthening the fabric of our nation and represent the best of America,” said Rep. Judy Chu, CAPAC chair.
“This annual spring gathering celebrates the importance of justice, prosperity, and equality for all people,” Rep. Adam Smith said.
