Bill 189 2005

An Act to proclaim Khalsa Day

Preamble

Ontario citizens of the Sikh faith have made and continue to make tremendous contributions to the growth and development of the province and of the country as a whole. It is important to recognize and celebrate those contributions.

On April 13, 1699, Guru Gobind Singh founded Khalsa, the Order of Pure Beings. The anniversary of this event has great significance for members of the Sikh faith, as do the five Ks: the kirpan, a sword representing indomitable spirit; the kes, unshorn hair, representing a simple life, saintliness and devotion to God; the kara, a steel bangle worn as a sign of the eternity of God; the kanga, a wooden comb worn to represent a clean mind and body; and the kacha, short breeches, representing hygienic living.

It is appropriate to recognize April 13, the day of the establishment of Khalsa, as Khalsa Day in Ontario.

Therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows:

Khalsa Day

1.  April 13 in each year is proclaimed as Khalsa Day.

Commencement

2.  This Act comes into force on the day it receives Royal Assent.

Short title

3.  The short title of this Act is the Khalsa Day Act, 2005.

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The Bill proclaims April 13 in each year as Khalsa Day.