For Immediate release

Sikh Youth Alliance NJ, in its commitment to promoting religious understanding, diversity and fostering inclusivity, takes this opportunity to shed light on NJ Department of Education (DOE) decision to add more Sikh religious observances in the school calendar for year 2023-24. As a significant aspect of Sikhism, these observances play a crucial role in shaping the spiritual lives of millions of adherents worldwide.

The increasing diversity of the Garden State is reshaping school calendars and, educators say, sometimes posing a challenge for those trying to plan out a school year, while respecting the needs of families and teachers. The religious observance list for Sikh community in New Jersey has been passed by the State Board of Education through the resolution for 2023-24. The initial list consisted of 9 Sikh religious observances, which has now increased to 15. The NJ DOE decision to include Sikh religious observances in the school calendar exemplifies the state’s commitment to embracing the rich tapestry of faiths represented within its student population. The holiday observances list has went into effect from July 2023, says Bhupindar Singh, Outreach Lead for Sikh Youth Alliance NJ.

The organization successfully advocated to include Bandi Chhor Diwas, Martyrdom of Wadde Sahibzade (Elder sons), Martyrdom of Chotte Sahibzade (Younger sons), First Prakash Guru Granth Sahib Ji, Prakash Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and Jyoti Jot Guru Nanak Dev Ji religious observance to be added to the exhaustive list of NJ Department of Education holiday observances for school calendar year 2023-24. The Sikh children needs to feel included in the classroom environment and including these religious observances would be an important step in the right direction. The inclusion of these holidays and spreading education and awareness around these observances should highlight the importance of Sikh history, religion, culture and identity in the classrooms.

The Sikh children, besides others, in the classrooms must be taught the history and significance of these religious observances so that the negative stereotypes and bullying can be drastically reduced. Further, the observance of Sikh religious holidays will make the Sikh children feel included in the classrooms, says Head Priest Giani Gurjit Singh, Gurudwara Khalsa Darbar, Burlington NJ.

Federal and state laws already protect students who take off school for religious reasons. The New Jersey Department of Education’s list of excused holiday absences of 171, up from the total in 1999, when the list contained fewer than 60 excusable days of observance.

Bandi Chhor Diwas has been recognized and celebrated in the state alongside Diwali however the inclusion and teaching of history behind this religious observance to kids in the classrooms would help reflect the importance of this particular day in Sikh faith. Bandi Chhor Diwas marks the release of Guru Hargobind Singh Ji and 52 other princes from unjust imprisonment in 1619. On similar note, the martyrdom of Wadde Sahibzade (Elder sons) and Chotte Sahibzade (Younger sons) of 10th Sikh Guru, continue to inspire millions around the world, standing as a testament of faith and bravery.

The NJ DOE decision reflect a broader commitment to diversity and inclusion, recognizing a truly enriching education must be sensitive to the cultural and religious needs of all students. By accommodating Sikh religious observances in the school calendar, the department sets a progressive example for the states and educational institutions.