April 1st, 2025

April is Sikh Heritage Month in Canada. More than 500,000 Sikh people live in Canada, the second-largest Sikh population in the world.

Celebrated in Ontario since 2013 and across Canada since 2019, this month recognizes the significant contributions that Sikh Canadians have made to the social, economic, political and cultural fabric of the country.

WRDSB Celebrates Sikh Heritage Month

Through the advocacy of Sikh educators and students, the WRDSB first recognized Sikh Heritage Month in 2021. This includes the celebration of Vaisakhi, the spring harvest celebration.

"Born with the strength to rise" - Rupi Kaur

This Year’s Logo

We would like to thank Anmoldeep Kaur, a secondary WRDSB student, for designing this year’s Sikh Heritage logo for 2025.

Sikhism is a tapestry of wisdom, resilience, and devotion—a faith woven with luminous teachings that guide the soul. Though no single image can fully contain its depth, its essence emerges through color and symbol, each stroke echoing its timeless truths.

This year, as we honour those who bear Kaur in their name, the design stands as a tribute to their strength, grace, and unwavering spirit. Through her art, Anmoldeep offers a heartfelt interpretation of what it means to embody Kaur.

This design highlights the timeless essence and purity of Sikhism. The girl depicted wears a ‘Dastar’ (turban), a significant symbol of Sikh identity. Sikhs cover their heads to protect their Kesh (hair), which holds deep cultural and spiritual importance as a sign of respect and devotion.

I chose the “Burnt Saffron” colour for the Dastar because it symbolizes simplicity, courage, and faith within Sikhism. Additionally, I featured the name ‘Kaur’ in Gurmukhi (Punjabi script), as it is the religious surname bestowed upon Sikhs by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Kaur represents both royalty and equality.

Including Rupi Kaur’s words beneath this design further reinforces a declaration of resilience and self-belief. In just a few words, she captures the innate strength within us all—the ability to overcome, rise above, and reclaim our power.

As a whole, this design is a reflection of me—my identity, culture, and traditions. It embodies who I am, where I belong, and what I believe in. More than that, it portrays how I see myself: a woman who upholds her heritage, walks a path guided by faith, and embraces a life of spirituality.

Facts About Sikhism

  • Sikhism is the fifth-largest religion in the world, with over 30 million followers.
  • The Sikh faith was founded by Guru Nanak and shaped by his nine successors, during the 16th and 17th centuries in South Asia.
  • The Sikh faith is one of the world’s youngest religions, founded over 500 years ago.
  • The word Sikh means “learner” in Punjabi.
  • A Sikh temple is called a Gurdwara.
  • In April, Sikhs celebrate Vaisakhi, also known as Khalsa Day. This day marks the creation of the Khalsa (Sikh community) and the Sikh articles of faith.

Resources for Students and Families

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