May greets Sikhs on Baisakhi, hails their values, contribution

LONDON: Several events have been organised across the United Kingdom to celebrate Vaisakhi, as Prime Minister Theresa May on Thursday hailed the contribution of Sikhs to the country, and said their values are needed now more than ever.

Vaisakhi events have been organised in the palace of Westminster and by the Indian high commission.

May said in her message: “I send my best wishes to everyone in Britain and around the world celebrating Vaisakhi – one of the most important dates in the Sikh calendar and a time when families and friends come together to commemorate the birth of the Khalsa.”

“As Sikhs across the globe take part in spectacular processions, and neighbourhoods and Gurdwaras burst forth with colour, I would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the immense contribution British Sikhs make to our country”.

“Whether it’s in the fields of business, the armed forces or the charitable sector, you consistently follow the pillars of your faith and in so doing set an example to us all.”

Recalling the ongoing process of the UK leaving the EU, she added: “Your values of equality and respect, of fairness and helping those less fortunate than yourselves are values we need more than ever, as we forge a new, ambitious, role for Britain in the world”.

“I am determined to build a country that works for everyone. A country where no matter who you are, you can achieve your goals and the Sikh community is a vital part of that mission”.

A recent survey in the British Sikh Report 2017 revealed that 65% voted to remain in the EU, but 73% would now vote to remain if there were a second EU Referendum. It also revealed that 13% of British Sikhs had been victims of hate crimes since the EU referendum.

Whether it’s in the fields of business, the armed forces or the charitable sector, you consistently follow the pillars of your faith and in so doing set an example to us all THERESA MAY, Britain Prime Minister