CAPAC Recognizes the Anniversary of the Birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Washington, DC – Today, Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements to mark the 543rd anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh Guru and the founder of Sikhism.

Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-32), CAPAC Chair:  “Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings emphasize the values of peace, respect, hard work and service to those most in need. The Sikh American community has embraced these values and made significant contributions towards the betterment of our country. As we mark the anniversary of Guru Nanak’s birth, we must also remember the victims of the tragic Oak Creek gurdwara shooting and commit ourselves to preventing future incidents of hate-based violence. I send my best wishes to the Sikh American community and all of those that follow Guru Nanak Dev’s teachings as they celebrate this auspicious day.”

Congressman Mike Honda (CA-15), CAPAC Chair Emeritus: “I give my best wishes to Sikh Americans as they celebrate the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh religion. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings and message of love and harmony have made a profound impact on humanity. Today, the Sikh community continues to embrace principles of unity, peace, and compassion that enhance the social and cultural fabric of our great nation. In spite of the terrible violence, hate crimes, and trauma experienced by Sikh Americans in the aftermath of 9/11 and this summer at the gurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, the community remains resilient in its virtues and steadfast in the practices of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. I am proud to work closely with the Sikh community, and I join in celebrating the birth and righteousness of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.”

Congressman Joe Crowley (NY-7): “On this day, as Sikhs in the U.S. and around the world gather to honor the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, we are all reminded of the values and principles of the Sikh religion, including social equality, righteousness, and service to our fellow neighbors. Today is also a day to recognize the many contributions Sikh-Americans have made to our nation. I send my best wishes to all those celebrating this momentous occasion.”

Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-16): “In observing the anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth, the founder of the Sikh faith, we celebrate a religion that preaches peace and tolerance. Those principles remained firm even in the face of this year’s terrible tragedy in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, when the faithful like those in the Bay Area Sikh community turned their grief into action by organizing peace rallies to promote greater understanding and unity.” 

Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA-12): “As Sikhs from across America and the world come together in celebration of the birth and life of Guru Nanak, we can all reflect on the virtues of unity, honesty, and truth which he extolled. We also stand together to remember and honor the innocent lives lost in the tragic events earlier this year at a Sikh gurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.”

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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.