Dasvand
The World Sikh Organization (WSO) commends Sikh members of Canada’s Olympic team for choosing to hold their turbaned heads high with pride as they march under Canada’s national flag at the Olympic opening ceremonies on Friday the 8th of August.
Ravi Kahlon’s sentiments, 'I want to show that you can wear a turban and still be Canadian,' say it all, and make us all proud.
Canada’s enviable national policy of Multiculturalism is based on the fundamental human principle of respecting – not decimating, Canadians’ culture, heritage, ethnicity, religion, geographical or racial background. “These Sikh athletes are highlighting Canada’s societal values in an impressive, colourful, meaningful and effective manner, that ALL Canadians should be proud of said,” Gurpreet Singh Bal, President WSO Canada.
Canadian Sikhs are especially and justifiably proud of the four players - Victoria's Kahlon, Bindi Kullar, of North Delta, B.C., Gabbar Singh of Surrey, B.C., and Ranjeev Deol of Mississauga, Ont., who have found courage and stand tall for what they are – Sikhs and Canadians. Sikhs have been proud partners in Canada’s progress, and now very proud partners of Canada’s Olympic squad.
Hopefully, this brave and bold decision by Canada’s Sikh Olympians will encourage all members of Global Sikh community to reflect on their own identity. “If it’s in you – don’t hide it, wear it proudly on your head, said,” Gian Singh Sandhu, Senior Policy Advisor of WSO.
Kudos to Canadian Sikh Olympians and Team Canada captain Rob Short for supporting turbans.
The World Sikh Organization (WSO) is a non-profit international umbrella organization with a mandate to promote and protect the interests of the Sikh Diaspora, as well as to promote and advocate for the protection of human rights for all individuals, irrespective of race, religion, gender, ethnicity, and social and economic status.
For more information, please contact:
Maj (retd.) Jasbeer Singh, Media Relations, Tel. 780-457-3333, Cell. 780-235-6000, Email: [email protected]
OR
Amanpreet Singh Bal Tel. 905-567-1795, Cell 416-677-1528, Email: [email protected]