The bill, introduced by Saskatchewan NDP Regina Pasqua MLA Bhajan Brar, would have permanently designated April as Sikh Heritage Month to honour the cultural, historical, and economic contributions of Sikh Canadians in Saskatchewan.
Despite federal recognition and widespread community support, Saskatchewan remains one of the only provinces without formal recognition, forcing Sikh organizations to reapply for designation each year.
“The Sask. Party had an opportunity to pass this bill today,” said Brar. “This was a simple, meaningful step. Instead, the Sask. Party chose to turn their backs on the Sikh community in Saskatchewan.”
Tajinder Grewal, MLA for Saskatoon University-Sutherland, said the government’s actions reflect a broader pattern of disrespect.
“Let’s not forget, this is the same Sask. Party that refused to remove MLA Racquel Hilbert after she made racist, anti-Sikh remarks.
“They had a chance to begin rebuilding trust and instead they’ve deepened the harm.”
The Saskatchewan NDP continues its call for Premier Scott Moe to remove MLA Hilbert from Government Caucus.
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