April proclaimed as Sikh Heritage Month in Windsor

On behalf of the city, Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens has proclaimed the month of April as Sikh Heritage Month.

"Sikhs have been living in Ontario since the midst of the 20th Century and they have made very valuable contributions," said Harjinder Singh Kandola, Windsor's Sikh Temple president. "They are an important part of the cultural, economic, social and political fabric of Ontario."

Hundreds of Sikhs in Windsor gathered at the temple Sunday to celebrate the 316 Khalsa Day — the anniversary of Sikhism becoming an organized faith.

"We are proud and we want to integrate more and more into the Canadian society," said Kandola.

Kandola said this is also an important celebration for the young Sikhs in the community.

"We want the kids to stay connected to our roots," he said. "They need to learn about the Sikh identity, Sikh values, history, code of conduct and principles."

On April 30 the City of Windsor will celebrate the contributions of Sikhs in the community.

In 2013, the Ontario government also proclaimed April Sikh Heritage Month.