CAPAC Members Celebrate Vaisakhi
Washington, D.C. – Today, millions of Sikhs in the United States and around the world celebrate Vaisakhi, a day that marks the start of the harvest in Punjab and the birth of the global Sikh community. Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements:
Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), CAPAC Chair:
“As a proud founder of the Congressional American Sikh Caucus and as the Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I wish a joyous Vaisakhi to all who are celebrating today. Sikhism embodies the ideals of community service, equality, and dignity – values that greatly strengthen our nation. It is my honor to join Sikhs in marking this wonderful day to celebrate the birth of Khalsa. Happy Vaisakhi!”
Congressman Mike Honda (CA-17), CAPAC Chair Emeritus:
“As CAPAC Chair Emeritus and a member of the American Sikh Caucus, I am honored to join the vibrant Sikh community in my Silicon Valley district and Sikhs around the globe in the celebration of Vaisakhi, which marks the birth of Khalsa. I am always proud to stand with our Sikh American community that continues to contribute to the rich tapestry of American society in standing for tolerance and understanding.”
Congressman Mark Takano (CA-41), CAPAC Whip:
“I wish a very happy Vaisakhi to all those celebrating today. May this harvest season bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to you and your family.”
Congressman Ami Bera (CA-07):
“Vaisakhi is a time when we celebrate our vibrant Sikh community and their rich history. This holiday marks a new year, as well as a time to give thanks for our blessings and look towards the future. I wish everyone a happy Vaisakhi and I look forward to celebrating with my friends in the Sikh community.”
Congressman Ted Lieu (CA-33):
“Happy Vaisakhi to all those celebrating this year! While the festival of Vaisakhi marks the start of the Punjabi New Year and spring harvest, it is also a celebration of community and progression. To all those celebrating around the world, including many from our Sikh communities, I wish you all a very happy and prosperous Vaisakhi.”
Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06):
“The Sikh community is an outstanding and vibrant community and it is an honor to send my warmest wishes to all who are celebrating Vaisakhi in New York and across the globe. Vaisakhi is the Sikh faith’s most important holiday and as we celebrate the birth of Khalsa, we pay tribute to all the important contributions that the Sikh community has made to society. The Sikh community has become woven into the fabric our country and continues to make America great. I encourage all Americans to learn more about Sikhism during Vaisakhi, and once again send my very best wishes to all who observe the holiday. Happy Vaisakhi!”
Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez (CA-46):
“I wish to extend my warm wishes to all those celebrating Vaisakhi. This annual spring holiday celebrates the inspirational principles of Sikhism: equality for all people, freedom to practice one’s religion and civic engagement. California is home to a large and vibrant Sikh community and I thank them for their meaningful contributions to our state.”
Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09):
“I want to wish those in the U.S. and around the world celebrating Vaisakhi a prosperous harvest season. This joyful festival honors the path towards peace and prosperity, celebrating community and progress towards equality of all people. Happy Vaisakhi!”
###
The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and Members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.