REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of November 2026 as Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month
Report
BACKGROUND
On August 28, 2024, the California State Legislature passed Assembly Concurrent Resolution 220, designating November as Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month throughout California in recognition of the Sikh community's rich cultural heritage, history, and significant contributions to the state.
California is home to a vibrant Sikh American community, with a strong presence throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, including Santa Clara County. Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the many contributions of Sikh Americans to California's cultural, social, and economic fabric while promoting greater understanding and appreciation of Sikh history, traditions, values, and faith. The observance also reaffirms the importance of religious freedom, inclusion, and mutual respect, condemns hate crimes and acts of discrimination against Sikh Americans, and encourages all individuals to practice their faith freely and without fear.
DISCUSSION
At the November 10, 2026, City Council meeting, the City of Santa Clara will officially proclaim November 2026 as Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month, recognizing the rich cultural heritage, traditions, and significant contributions of the Sikh American community. Harpreet Singh Kohli, representing the Silicon Valley Gurdwara, will be in attendance to accept the Proclamation.
The Silicon Valley Gurdwara is a volunteer-operated nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the Sikh community in Santa Clara and throughout central Silicon Valley. The Gurdwara serves more than 500 members who regularly attend religious services and provides a welcoming space for worship, cultural enrichment, and community engagement. In addition to its religious services, the organization offers mentorship and youth development programs, including Punjabi language and traditional music classes following Sunday services. Through these initiatives, the Silicon Valley Gurdwara plays an important role in preserving Sikh heritage, fostering intergenerational connections, and promoting cultural understanding, education, and community service.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an information report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City other than staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Aimée Escobar, Management Analyst, City Manager’s Office
Approved by: Jōvan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Proclamation of November 2026 as Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month