Abhirup Singh
Cardozo’s Sikh Student Association and Cardozo’s Key Club participated in the Sikh Day Parade on Sat. April 27. The Sikh Day Parade is a parade that celebrates the contributions of Sikhs in the United States and serves as an opportunity for everyone to learn more about who the Sikh people are. It can be compared to the Irish Day Parade, Easter Parade, or Lunar New Year Parade. The Sikh Day Parade takes place annually near Madison Square Park.
Sikhism is an independent and monotheistic (belief in one God) religion that originated in the Punjab area of Northern India in 1469. Sikhism is the 5th largest religion worldwide, with almost 30 million followers. Sikhism believes in the importance of the remembrance of God at all times, truthful living, and equality of humanity, and denounces superstitions, fasting, and blind rituals. Sikh teachings are written in the Sikh holy book which for Sikhs is considered their eternal living Guru, known as the Guru Granth Sahib. The five articles of faith which include the turban and beard are significant aspects of Sikh identity, symbolizing religious commitment for both men and women.
In Sikhi (also known as Sikhism), “langar” describes the communal meals shared by everyone from different faiths, religions, and backgrounds. In a Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship), after service takes place, attendees eat together on an equal level on the floor. This serves as a reminder of the equality and oneness of all humankind. Of course, this will not work for the Sikh Day Parade, but the hot and fresh meals being served on this day are still referred to as “langar.”
“Seva” is an important tenet that Sikhs believe in, which means selfless service. During the Sikh Day Parade, members of Key Club and Sikh Student Association will be doing “Seva.” In other words, volunteering or giving back to the community without expecting a reward.
My name is Abhirup Singh and I am a sophomore attending Cardozo High School. I am the current Committee Head for Cardozo Key Club and the upcoming President of Cardozo’s Sikh Student Association. I organized this effort because I believe the parade would be a great way for members of both clubs to not only experience a new culture and learn about a new religion but to also do “Seva” (volunteer to help with parade organizing tasks).
