The Presence and Practices of Sikhism in Canada

Sikhism is a religion that was founded in India by Guru Nanak around 1500 B.C. Since then, it has grown in numbers and has become a widely known world religion. In fact, the main place of worship and the holiest shrine in the Sikhism faith, the Golden Temple was just visited by the Prime Minister of Canada, Stephen Harper, in early November, 2009.

This paper was written to give you a better idea of the presence and practices of Sikhism in Canada. It will also introduce you to the controversies they face being in a religion that is meant to differentiate, and how difficult that can be for them in a country with a strong western culture. First you will learn of the statistics and demographics of Sikh’s in Canada. Secondly, a bit of history will be introduced which will give a better idea of their culture. Thirdly, a better picture of their culture and religion will be painted when their common religious practices are described. Finally, the three largest controversies facing Sikh’s in Canada will be introduced and a brief description of them are given.

Statistical Overview

Canada is a very diverse country that is home of many different cultures and religions. In fact, without the immigration to Canada from other countries, Canada would have a negative rate of population growth as we have a larger aging population than that which is being born. Canada provides a place of worship for many different religions and religious groups.

Of all persons in Canada, the presence of Sikhism followers is a mere 0.9%. Although that percentage seems to be small and trivial, approximately 17% of all Sikhism followers in the world are located within North America. Within Atlantic Canada, there are around 500 followers of the religion. Large...

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...tish Columbia there are laws in place that allows Sikh’s to wear their turbans while on their motorcycle instead of wearing a helmet.

The younger generation of Sikh’s are facing issues that their ancestors may not have faced, making it more difficult for them to make the decisions that are best for themselves. It is becoming increasingly difficult for them to face the pressures of society and the pressures of the religion and family, because often the two pressures are on completely different ends of the spectrum. Although it is possible to be a follower without bearing the outward appearance of Sikhism, there are mixed feelings towards if they genuinely are following or not. It boils down to being a personal choice and whatever works best for each individual, however finding the perfect ratio of western culture and Sikh identity has proven to be a tricky chore.