UPDATE: Canadian Election 2011 Analysis – Sikhs: Kingmakers in Our Own Mind
UPDATED: Picture added on bottom.
UPDATED 5/11 – Maple Leaf Sikhs responds! View here!
My fellow Sikh-Canadians, its the morning after the big party. How does it feel? You must be a little hung over? Why wouldn’t you be? You’ve been drunk on power over the last 5 weeks. You’ve had every leader in the country wining and dining you in style. Telling you how great you are, how important you are to him and how he can’t live without you. They’ve trotted you out to every event like a prized possession, your dastaar (turban) became the ultimate fashion accessory of the election. No political stage was complete without a token Sardar in his requisite blue, red or orange turban.
You took the leaders everywhere with you. They met your family and friends – heck you even introduced them to your Father Guru and foolishly praised their false kingdoms in the presence of the King of Kings. You invited them to your Khalsa’s birthday celebrations and if they were able to say the Guru’s Fateh, your heart melted because you believed they really loved you. It felt great to be in the spotlight.
After so many years of being insulted and neglected, being seen as an outsider and the Other, you were finally part of the cool kids crowd. You felt like a somebody – recognized on the national stage as a king-maker. Now its the morning after and what do you have to show for it?
The numbers are clear. Not a single Amritdhari left in Parliament. In fact you’re down to only one Sardar. 1984 petition supporters Sukh Dhaliwal and Andrew Kania both gone. Gurbax Malhi gone too. ALL defeated largely by Sikhs supporting their opponents. But, boy did it feel good to get rid of Ujjal and Ruby. Except at the end of the day they’re Sikhs too. Sure you’ve added a few Sikh faces but it remains a question of where their loyalties really lie and if they will fight for our rights.
Congratulations Sikh-Canadians. You’ve cut off your nose to spite your face.
You spent hundreds of thousands of dollars, if not millions, fighting each other. You dug up dirt on each other and leaked scandals to the media. You even got your smear campaigns on to CBC’s The National.
Its a sad day for the Guru’s Panth in Canada, when you see Amritdhari uncles with long flowing beards and kirpans stationed as scrutineers at a polling station to ensure the Amritdhari candidates LOSES because he’s from the wrong gurdwara.
Sure there were some bright spots but they were few. Jagmeet Singh’s campaign and near win was inspirational in its mobilzation of youth and its largely positive message. He’s got a great career ahead of him BUT for now he has to live with the knowledge that because of him the longest serving Sikh dastaar-wearing politician in Canadian history is no longer in office. I doubt Bal Gosal will be taking over Mr. Malhi’s tradition of Vaisakhi Akhand Paths in the Canadian Parliament. Nor will Mr. Gosal likely be making statements on 1984 in the House of Commons like Mr. Malhi has gone on record to do multiple times.
Its widely acknowledged that the NDP are great supporters of the Sikh community and its key concerns. Jack Layton has passionately defended the kakkars and spoken loudly against human rights abuses by the Indian state in Punjab. However, he can kick and scream all he wants over the next four years, but a majority Conservative government will do what it pleases.
Speaking of a majority Conservative government, I’m not optimistic for Sikh-Canadian issues. Kiss your 1984 genocide petition goodbye along with anything substantial on the Komagata Maru apology. And the next time the Sikh identity is attacked by irrational Quebecers or anyone else for that matter, don’t expect anything more than apathetic half-hearted responses from our government. This has been the Conservative response over the past 5 years and there’s nothing seen said or done by Tim Uppal, Nina Grewal or Parm Gill that gives me confidence that this will change. But hey if you suck up to Jason Kenney your cousin might get a visa.
The icing on the cake is that we now have an unstoppable Prime Minister who while working as the Director of Policy contributed to a Blue Book for the Reform Party of Canada in which the party explicitly stated that it “supports the preservation of the the distinctive heritage and tradition of the RCMP by retaining the uniformity of the dress code. Changes should not be made for religious or ethnic reasons.” To top it off they “opposed to any immigration based on race or creed or designed to radically or suddenly alter the ethnic makeup of Canada”. Sure the Reform Party is no more and every individuals views change over time, but the individuals that supported the ban on Sikhs from legions are still in the party fold. It is unfortunate that most Sikhs in Canada probably weren’t here and don’t remember this not-so-distant past. However, those of us who were here and endured their racist policies, will never forget.
So my fellow Sikh-Canadians, we have flexed an unprecedented level of power and influence in federal Canadian politics this campaign and we are the poorer for it. We are an even more divided community with fewer elected representatives in office. Sikh issues will move even further to the periphery of the Canadian agenda. We had a great time during the election party but now that it’s back to the business of running the country and, we’re on the outside looking in. And we did it to ourselves.
79 Responses to “UPDATE: Canadian Election 2011 Analysis – Sikhs: Kingmakers in Our Own Mind”
[…] The Langar Hall […]
I wonder how much the kirpan controversy steered non-Sikh Canadians away from the turban wearing candidates.
Strong words. Yet, extremely misleading.
This election had nothing to do with the Sikh community flexing its muscles and shooting itself in the foot, it was a necessary purge with some very unfortunate side-effects.
In my opinion the problem here is evident. What we witnessed was the inability of "Panthic" individuals to do some selfless seva for their Panth, they placed their Party politics/allegiances and personal ambitions ahead of the community. For example, even when the NDP surge was evident and Jagmeet Singh's campaign was on the "up and up" many "Panthic" supporters didn't want to "burn their bridges" and refrained from openly supporting THE ONLY campaign explicitly stating that it would introduce a 1984 Sikh Genocide Motion into the House.
On another note, I have to say that this article is extremely problematic. The reality is Panthic individuals regardless of their party affiliations ALL threw their weight behind Sukh Dhaliwal and Andrew Kania – but when the tables turned many Liberals were unwilling to do the same for others. What we witnessed was how some were willing to work for the Panth without any condition, whereas others were only willing to work for themselves and "their" Party.
Also, let's be clear, the Liberals lost because of their poor leadership, horrible track record on human rights issues and more. Sukh Dhaliwal and Andrew Kania enjoyed support from Panthic individuals across party lines, but they still loss because the party was weak.
You're upset that G.O.I stooges like Dosanjh and Dhalla are out?! They were both friends and endorsers of Sajjan Kumar who SHOULD be on trial for state sponsored genocide in India. Please do some research instead of just yelling "SIKHS SHOULD BE IN PARLIAMENT!", those two MP's carried the exact opposite of 'Sikh interest' in Ottawa. Good riddance to bad rubbish. Gurbax Malhi's time was up, he had 12 years to make in-roads on issues like 1984, but it was Kania who actually made more headway in less time.
Parkash Badal is also an "amritdhari". Enough said
Maple Leaf Sikh presents one of the most flawed opinion pieces that I have ever read. First of all I think this Singh should be happy that Gurbax Malhi is gone. He was an embarrasing and polarizing individual and power had gone to his head. He fought a nasty campaign where he attacked everything from Bal Gosal's family, to the Sikh youth supporting Jagmeet saying that they were "Kal they Jawok" (Yesterdays babies) and who were they to dare oppose him. He even went as low to publicly say at one household who when he was doorknocking that Jagmeet Singh should learn how to tie a dastar. I think if anything this elections showed that Gurbax Malhi has never espoused the values of Sikhism. You say that he should not have been opposed because he has a turban BUT ram rahim also wears a turban – should we not oppose him?????
Throughout your opinion you also say that Sikhs cost Sikh seats but I am of the opinion that it should be best person for the job not the biggest pug or largest ghatra wearer. Yes Mr. Malhi has Akhand Paths every year for Vaisakhi (which the government pays for) BUT Parm Gill does also where he pays for it himself and has it at a Gurdwara in Brampton…perhaps one doesnt need to advertise the fact that they do Akhand paths as it should be done for communal service and not self promotion.
It is almost as though you feel sad that Ujjal Dosanjh and Ruby Dhalla have lost. Dosanjh and Dhalla have been divisive since their arrival on the national political scene in 2004. Dosanjh crossed the bounds with his unfounded attack on Sikh youth….and whoever is writing this maybe is young themself or they have children…did you not feel that tinge inside you when he made these hateful comments….Further more he is facing criminal charges of inciting hatred in India (isnt it ironic the legal system he said has given justice to many people will now deal it to him) and refuses to go to face these charges whereas previously he would be more than happy to jump on a place and talk all sorts of rubbish.
Ruby Dhalla = inviting Kamal Nath / holding Modi's hand enough said.
Further more you talked about smear. I live in brampton-springdale and it was the almost daily bombardment of newsletters about Parm from Ruby's office that was the biggest mudslinging…it was almost one-sided and it all came from Ruby. Further more when she was asked about the 15 lakh she spent of the Gov. of Punjab money in eleven days in India her response was that she was invited " and when you are invited somewhere you are going to eat"…..yes Ruby you may have a plate with a hospitable host but you are not going to go to a poor man's fridge and pantry and empty it out…clearly a lack of class and social refinement on her part….perhaps the author before casting any doubts on Gill or Gosal or even the new NDP MP-elects from BC should perhaps do the very Sikh thing and at least give them a chance to prove themselves.
Now we move on to the Amritdhari Sikh who lost his seat. I am confident that anyone who knows this person knows that he is Amritdhari in name and appearance only. THe very definition of Khalsa means striving for social justice and sticking up for people who cannot stick up for themselves. He has failed to live up to his number one promise when he won the Liberal nomination for his riding back in 2003 and that was to keep Sikh issues in the fore…I know I was there and I remember his words clearly….clearly he failed when it came to the Genocide petition…He went further and slapped Sikhs across the face by going to Indira Ghandis Samadh and leaving flower petals…His father who seemed to be his spokeman even tried to justify this by saying Navdeep was young when 1984 happened therefore does/did not understand all the issues surrounding it…I was 1 and I understand…another fail…You say the Amritdhari uncles going against Navdeep was a sad day for the panth but I say it was a great and courageous day for the panth. It was a day when amritdhari people stood up and said that because you never stood with the Sikhs we will not stand with you and are proud to openly declare so. You talk about Parm Gill…he was downtown in the rain telling Kamal Nath along with hundreds of others, making his voice heard and telling Nath to GO BACK HOME. Where was Punjab de tee? organizing his Ottawa luncheons. What was sad and agreeably so was the Amritdhari Sikhs who showed up to help Kyle Seeback and the candidates against Sukh Dhaliwal (I dont know their politics but just because of the Genocide issue the community in essence united.
I further think that Ruby was too far on the brink and the panthic vote did not sink her but she sunk herself as the 11000 vote victory attests to.
The only riding where I think the panthic vote actually secured a victory was against Navdeep Bains. He lost by 4800…you do not think that there was at least 2500 angry Sikhs who saw that Navdeep is just using his turban as a political tool. They awoke and saw that and if you minus 2500 from his total and add it eve that would give you the 5000 vote margin.. Good riddance…he is the one who played dirty politics with the petition and advised Ignatieff and the Liberal Leadership that the petition was not supported by the broader community but by a small band of rabble rousers..Furthermore, Navdeep never had the courage to stand up against Ujjal and even further invited him to his campaign office opening not so long ago….he never once stated that he is not happy with his comments or reassured sikhs that the Liberal party does not stand by Ujjals comments but actually played politics with the. Navdeep = fail and not only on panthic issues but his platform that he chaired the creation of lead to the most resounding defeat ever = HUGE FAIL; at least Andrew Kania and Sukh Dhaliwal went out with their head held high and one thing about Andrews campaign is that in one room or knocking on one street you would have people from different Gurudwaras, both the Gurudwara committees and all the sports clubs united….whereas they do not get along on one thing they stood together on Andrew Kania and instead of blaming Navdeeps loss on those who are from another gurudwara committee perhaps it was his fathers friends who sat at home or didnt come to help or they openly told people not to vote for him because of the same thing that brought people from all the different factions together at Andrew Kanias. Also Navdeep was utterly divisive, never coming to the OGC nagar Kirtan or gurdwaras and also openly taking sides during the Dixie Gurdwara elections even though he knew nothing of the issues. Perhaps the Sikhs who helped Navdeep should feel bad not that he lost but rather that they could have spent more time helping Andrew Kania or Jagmeet Singh.
And having fewer brown guys in office then before suits me fine if they actually arent doing anything..Give me one andrew Kania for ten thousand nav bains anyday
You claim that Sikhs cut of their nose to spite their faces BUT I think it is more adequate to say that they picked their fallen turban off of the ground and are attempting to tie it back on. For many years now the Liberals have been taking Sikhs for granted thinking we will come out in the droves and vote red and now Sikhs have said no we are better than that and we will vote where the issues important to us would be best served.
Sevadar,
Although I'm not in agreement with some of Navdeep's positions, I think you've ignored and worse, misrepresented a lot in your comments.
Navdeep was front and centre in a lot of Sikh issues. When it came to the kirpan, he was a huge asset to our community and he never shied away from being the face of the issue. He was also not a token Sikh in Parliament but recognized as a Canadian MP who was respected for his work in many different areas.
It's also a fact that he never laid flowers on Indira Gandhi's memorial. Not sure where this rumor comes from.
As for not going to the OGC nagar kirtan: it was always made clear that he wasn't welcome.
I think the 1984 issue was definitely a place where his silence was deafening and it was a mistake. The community has a right to be upset with him. His view was probably that he didn't want to touch it for fear of being labelled an extremist sympathizer (and the fact that his links to 'extremism' were pushed in the media at various times by Milewski and Bolan). That doesn't excuse his behaviour but it does explain it.
Overall I think there's no doubt that Navdeep was an asset to us in Parliament and he will be missed.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not a member of Navdeep's team, nor did I campaign for him but I think it's unfair to ignore all the good he did.
lets be real we need Navdeep and so do we need Jagmeet and people like Kania and Sukh. We don't Gosal who clearly won by chance, why cant we ever work together?
Commenter, I think you have misjudged this situation…..HIS DAD HAS GONE ON RECORD SAYING AND ADMITTING HE PUT THE FLOWERS ON THE SAMADH AND TRYING TO JUSTIFY IT THAT NAV MADE A MISTAKE…that is proof enough that is dad admitted it
OGC Nagar Kirtan, him not being welcome is a falsity – half the dixie commitee and the other gurdwaras such as scarborough ect show up so why wouldnt he be welcome – plus it is a sangat even – as far as I know no one has ever been asked not to come and he is not some king where he needs a directed invitation to attend
NAVDEEP IS A FAIL FOR THIS FINAL REASON – instead of dispelling the myth of the petition being extremist he almost lent credence to that myth by not supporting the petition – he also went further of not supporting by telling iggy that the majority of Sikhs do not support it and that Kania and Sukh are just on their own on this….all he saw was the PM korsee and he abandoned his panth for it….but if had not the panth would have stood with him…His behavoior could be explained but then everybody could have an excuse…Sukh could have, Andrew could have, maybe Malhi had an explanation that the indian government likes him so he doesnt want to upset them or maybe Ruby has an excuse too.
PS as smart as we thought he was I think the historic failure of his platform which he wrote spoke volumes of his political acumen = FAIL;
I do agree he took a stand on the Kirpan issue but so did everyone including the Conservatives and NDP…the only ones who were against it were the Federal BLOC, the provincial Parti Quebecois And the quebec provincial LIBERALS = it was a moment where all the nationalist parties stood up but you are right Navdeep did take a stand on the Kirpan issue – an issue that was important to all canadians
Navdeep was photographed placing flowers on Mohandas Gandhi's samadh when Paul Martin and all the other South Asian MPs visited India. Not saying that was right (it wasn't) but it's not anything like doing it on Indira's.
The OGC has made it clear that they will not welcome Navdeep to their events. I agree he could have still gone, but it may have lead to tension.
Navdeep's stand on the kirpan issue was well beyond what others did. He has consistently supported the kirpan even when it was unpopular to do so. The Conservatives never supported it. The most they will say is "this is an issue for the Sergeant at Arms". Which is really just waffling.
I'm trying to be balanced an honest here, and I've already recognized that Navdeep should have done better on the 1984/extremism issue. When Ujjal was smearing the community it was his duty to come out openly and say that he is a 2nd generation Sikh and he knows Ujjal's lying. He missed that opportunity and it cost him.
The platform: I think leadership of the party had more to do with the failure of the Liberals than the platform. Iggy has the personality and charisma of a light pole.
Commenter,
His dad said he placed them on Indiras, and gave reasons to justify it…not mohandas BUT INDIRA- from the horses mouth.
Where is this evidence the OGC said he is not welcome; and if people like the Dixie Gurdwara president can go without tension I think Nav could also go. THe only people ever to ask someone to leave their event were the OSGC/Dixie Gurudwara when they asked Colleen Beaumier to leave a function.
Champion Akand paat organizer, stamp designer and former MP Gurbax Malhi, when asked on radio about his absence from the recent Sikhs for Justice Conference stated that he is an elected official and needs to be invited to these things. It is possible that Navdeep Bains believes he should be invited to community events as well. The question here isn’t only for the MPs but also to Sikh Organizations like SFJ and OGC as to why they don’t invite all MPs?
There are many flawed implications in this post by Maple Leaf Sikh, one such example is “that we now have an unstoppable Prime Minister”. The implication is that due to divisions in the Sikh Community, Mr Harper got his much sought after majority government. Even if Kania, Bains, Malhi, Dhalla, Dhaliwal and Dosanjh won their seats, Harper would still have a majority government with 161 seats. Would that satisfy the author? What exactly would satisfy the author is unclear as the premise
Ujjal Dosanjh lost which is great.
Sukh Dhaliwal, Navdeep Singh and Jagmeet Singh losing is unfortunate, but in the big picture this election was great, in that we had Sikh participation in all the parties. It used to be that we had Navdeep and Gurbax running with the Liberals and we thought it was great.
We had Singhs running for all 3 major parties and Mr. Uppal is still representing the Dastaar and Khulee Daari in Parliament. We aren't doing that badly.
This election change the whole political scenarios in Canada as Mr Layton openly talk about the sikh issues as well Mr ignatieff conservatives also speaks on sikh issues. But what will happen as i was watching it closely liberals was in power from 1993 as well conservatives nobody speak at that times sikh should not be flatter political parties now came to know how to use us nobody is going to do nothing just playing with the Sikhs sentiments unless we are united does not matter which party you are in but every sikh should understand not let them use us in the name of blue star operation or after the death of Ms. Indira Gandhi. Be united and understand the need of future generations and act accordingly.
I have read carefully the views of "Maple Leaf Sikh". His satire is written in very good English. His expression is smooth, touches various aspects of Sikh Politics in Gurdwara and in real politics. On the other respondents have acted more aggressively. In fact He is giving subtle and indirect judgments without knowing what is going to happen to SIKHS by the new Government. I personally refuse to react to his incitement until I have seen the behaviour of the new Conservative majority. I am not going to have any comments on Ms.Ruby Dhalla or Mr. Dosanjh because their defeat itself has enough of its own painful repercussions. I respectfully suggest my fellow Sikhs not to spray any more Salt on their wounds. I will be grateful for your graciousness. SIKHS are known for being brave as well as generous.
I think these are brave, and accurate comments. I thank you for them. Although the Conservative party joined others in "courting" the "ethnic vote" (including Sikhs) this election, their record is unbelievably racist and under-inclusive. They do not support true diversity within our boarders, and their immigration and refugee policies are designed to ensure fewer people get here and for shorter period of times. Even family reunification is not a priority (this is not speculation – see: http://www.cleonet.ca/instance_news.php?instance_… for numbers detailing results under Conservative leadership). And even their campaign ads show a dislike of those who are not white and middle class. It is appalling. One of the great ironies of this election is that a party founded on anti-diversity successfully appealed to such diverse and multi-cultural populations. I am fearful of the result. And I very much hope that four years from now our communities are still strong enough to fight back.
sounds more of a childish discussion. we need to play constructive part towards Sikhism, but here we all sound like very greedy or power hungry. people bashing Bains obviously did not support him, so why bother repeating here now? they can sure approach Adams now to stand up for their issues even though Sikh vote wasn't a decider here.
This is sickening. People should run for office not to represent the panth but to represent the people in the constituency. When will Sikhs ever understand that we are part of a larger community. Our propensity to consider us "special" has created a massive divide not only in our own community but with Canadians in general. At the end of the day the most qualified individuals deserve to hold office. Malhi, Dhalla, and Grewal are jokes and should be lucky that they have (and still are) sat in the House of Commons. I know I will receive backlash for my comments but I am sure it will originate for the zealots in our community. Unfortunately our community is full of them.
Navdeep Bains had his first campaign office opend by Ujjal Dosanjh. Ujjal cut the ribbon to start his political career, come on people see the real deal these people are not panthic
people malhi and Navdeep told the party to ignor sikhs and the ujjal issue….petition tooo….there where 24000 sikhs in ottawa where was navdeep perhaps drinking coffee in his office….WSO had a dinner in ottawa same time where were they…..eating smaosa;s
Having worked on the Genocide petition, I would like to make a few facts clear. I personally met with all MPs from Brampton officially, except Ruby Dhalla (explain further down). At the meeting with Mr. Bains, he made it clear that he did not believe a Sikh should stand up for Sikh issues, rather none Sikhs should do this. His reasoning was that it would appear as though he was playing favourites’ with his community. When asked why the Sikh community voted him into power, he said all communities in the riding voted him into power, not just the Sikhs. When asked if he thinks he could have won a nomination in a riding in Northern Ontario without Sikh support, he said good point and then went on to say he will consider supporting the Petition. After which the meeting ended and he never supported it.
Mr. Malhi was the first MP asked by SFJ to do this petition before Mr. Kania. Mr. Malhi said there was no point to petitions and that he would see what he could do (also a brushing off of SFJ). When we tried to explain that the act of putting forward a petition would not only educate our community but the wider community as well, Mr. Malhi said it would not do anything. In June Mr. Malhi tried his utmost to stop the petition. One week before the petition was to be read, the party had put such pressure on Andrew and Sukh that a team of SFJ had to travel to Ottawa to save it. At the meeting with Liberal party members, they stated that we should first convince Mr. Malhi as he was the longest serving member of the Sikh community. Again we went to meet him, this time in Ottawa. The arrogance he showed to us is something I will never forget. He again said he would think over our request, though it was clear he had no intention of helping.
Ms. Dhalla, I personally met in Ottawa in the opposition room (in the house of commons, not sure what its called). There I started to talk about the petition and tried to give her a copy. She got angry and said I was harassing her. She asked who had signed me into this part of the house (no one can enter there unless a MP signs you in) and then took me to Sukh and said he’s harassing me and filed a complaint against Sukh with Liberal party for letting me inside there. After that, it was clear there was no point in asking her for help.
In closed caucus meetings, Mr. Malhi and Mr. Bains made the biggest issue about the petition. They tried to present a scenario that only a very small extreme faction of the community was interested in this and that the Liberal party should stop Andrew and Sukh. Mr. Bains even took an email he received asking MPs not to attend a Canada India foundation dinner because they supported Kamal Nath, and said something along the lines of look, if we do not push back, these guys will start to bully us.
So as a person who worked on the Sikh Genocide Petition, let me be clear. Bains opposed it, Malhi opposed it, Dhalla didn’t want anything to do with it. And as a citizen who has grownup in Brampton, I am ecstatic these jokers are no longer representing our community.
@Gurpreet
I am going on record saying that in bains riding if he had supported Sikh causes he would have got just enough to squeak by
@sevadar
The Problem with most of the Navdeep Bains Critics is that you want him to be a SIKH MP. Only represent and fight SIKH issues. He is a Canadian MP who represented his Riding with respect and dignity for all. The other Ethnic groups have a much larger respect for him than our own community does which is quite sad. Navdeep didn't lose this riding because of sikh votes he lost it because the Liberal Party had poor leadership.
The pathetic part is all of your amrti-tare singhs want everyone to be perfect. @Sevedar you probably would crumble if your life was under scrutiny as Mr. Bains is. I am sure you dont represent sikhism to a Tee. Making Personal commments like "he runs to his dad" just shows people your that your inmature and really cant put up good arguments.
This wasn't a Gurdwara Elections…this was a Federal Elections, Sikhs are only 2% of the population.
Lets focus on Canadain Issues. 1984 happened In India, every country in the god dam world can recognize it , but it wont change what happened. As long as we as a community recognize it thats what matters the most because so much of the youth doesn't even know what happened. India has a SIkh Prime Minister send complaints to him. 1984 is not a Canadian Issue, yes many Canadians were effected by it. Many Communities and Ethnic groups have had tragedy happen to them in their home countries, thats why the came to canada to get away from those issues. Not to bring those "politics" here.
and there are SIkh Canadian Issues like example the Kirpan which Navdeep Bains did a terrfic job defending.
We really need to stop bringing India style politics to Canada.
Navdeep Served Brampton and Mississauga well and I am one person who is proud of him.
lets focus more on Canadian Issues as oppose to Indian Issues.
please do not delete my post
Although this article claims to be about the loss of representation of Sikh issues and interests in Canadian politics after the election, I think it is actually more of a lament for the fact that the Sikh community is no longer united behind the Liberal Party. For example, check the numbers–Jagmeet Singh did not cost Malhi the election, but actually the other way around. Clearly, the Liberal Party just tanked—everywhere—and there’s no need to blame internal strife or division within our community for it. Personally I think the political diversification of our community is a good thing.
But there's something else that I find even more curious about this article. I completely agree with the first part of the article, which identifies how our community panders to Canadian politicians and to powerful people ("the cool kids") in ways that are somewhat pathetic and frankly reveal a rather colonized mentality. But then the article goes on to argue that we basically didn't do a good enough job of this, that we weren't successful enough in our pursuit to become one of the cool kids!
I would rather we spend more time thinking about the questions raised by the first part of the article. Why do we so desperately seek the recognition and acceptance of Canadian politicians and political parties, and why are we so willing to be used as pawns and to degrade ourselves in the process? How is our obsession with gaining inclusion and representation in Canadian politics and society actually constraining and undermining our understandings of what it means to be a Sikh, and what it means to live a life according to Sikhi?
@golden child
Bro Nav Bains was a joke…lets talk facts…you say that it should be left in India…yea we have really had justice in 27 years…also Nav Bains as a MP should know about Canada's obligations under international law…also everyone should be aware that he was very supportive and gave several speeches in order to declare what happened in Screbernica as a genocide but couldnt speak up for his own people???/ According to you he should have left that in Bosinia- no my freind why dont you learn something and see that if Canada recognizes it the international community must investigate which could lead to the uncovering of evidence = big picture ..THINK HARD-Makes no sense unless there was someone in the back controlling him not to support it – GOI????WSO????
Also lets go to India…I go everyyear and fight for justice there and here…you talk about me crumbling under the pressure bro you dont even know anything just some Bains relative or WSO guy talking a lot…why dont you read what Iwitness wrote
Also if Bains wants to stand for his constituents I am sure I can give you 1000 who have been directly affected or a relative by what happend in 1984 – I am in that category so he obviously ignored me…I cared about justice not fighter jets and lets remeber one thing about the Conservatives under Brian Mulroney—-many feel that if it wasnt for Mulroney putting pressure on Thatcher, Regan/Bush – the apartheid regime never would have crumbled…so politically speaking human rights should be across the board respected
Also Neplanta – I agree with you thats why about 400 hundred youth assembled at Dixie to tell the Downtown Nagar kirtan organizers not to allow the people who said hurtful things to speak but our community has what I call the Photo/Chaudar problem and didnt want to say no to them
Just to add another fact on to this insightful debate; the OSGC Downtown Nagar Kirtan 2011 did a couple of adjustments to the politicians speaking on stage.
(1) Only Federal parties spoke, as this was most pertinent (not munincipal/Provincial)
(2) Each party collectively spoke, with one spokesperson (no individual members)
(3) [most important detail] The parties spoke ONLY on issues detailed by OSGC i.e. 1984 Petition etc
This is very different then other years. I liked how members of the SIkh Activist Network openly voiced their dispproval of MP Jason Kenne (as many racist and unethical commitments originate from his office), and it was made well known, that we as Sikhs will not allow such an unethical figure to stand side by side with Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaj, and speak to Guru Ji's Sangat with lies.
What I'm saying is we are widely reducing the time allotted to political parties, while openely voicing our dispproval to the manipulators.
i am ashamed that sikhs ever elected Navdeep Bains. He has not done anything for sikhs in his riding let alone for Sikhs over all.
I want to see if any of you guys can even get Navdeep Bains on the phone let alone get him out to support any Sikh cause.
I have placed an order of laddoos that will be given out because Navdeep Bains LOST!!!
First thing first, I voted for NDP candidate which was opponent of bains (not because only Sikh interest but looking at overall parties platform which is benefit to all people of Canada including visible minorities). I also support Sikh genocide petition with that being said I also support visible minorities which were affected by human rights violations in their own country which part of Khalsa ideals. The petition of 1984 being genocide should have expanded to all the human rights violations all the visible minorities experienced in their human countries not only petition would have gained momentum among visible communities in Canada but community abroad then it should have presented to mps and their leaders sort of putting onus on their court to prove if they support human rights violations of visible minorities aligned with International laws…another thing we should have done before even approaching to mps or respective party regarding petition of 1984 genocide is to get edict in writings from Sri Akaal Takth Sahib(Vatican for Sikhs) to push it as official stand on this matter. There was news not long ago, jathedar at Sri Akaal Takth sahib are fully supportive at this..may be we as community can mature up in next 4 years and start thinking that human rights issues are global issues, Sikhs are not only victims in this, there are so many other visible minorities which are victim in their own home country, we need to approach them, collectively create an petition expanding to genocide affecting other communities including our own..this is what Khalsa ideals stood for in the past…it's good strategic move as well to include other communities genocide in the petition as we will not be the tribal community with issues of human rights (in their eyes).
Yes jodha veer, actually that strategy you mentioned could be quite effective as well.
This election has taught many lessons and its outcome will teach many more yet. The process and results have left me with questions that the many contributors to this blog are raising in their comments to Maple Leaf Singh’s post.
I ask of myself and everyone reading, what is the identity we want to portray as Canadian Sikhs? What is dear to all of us that we want to protect and wish to share with this country? As a community we have accomplished so much in so short a time, yet so few know of our accomplishments.
Do we have an understanding of what our identity is today? What will it be in 5 years or 10 years?
What role do we want to play as Sikhs in the building of this country?
Do we even consider Canada our country? If we do not, should we run for public office or vote?
Those that we nominate or elect ; what expectations do we place on them for our vote? Is it to better our identity as Sikh Canadians? Is it to garner us favour for visas for family members? Is it to satisfy some ego driven need? Is it to fulfill some vendetta for Gurdwara politics?
What expectations of character, qualifications and commitment do we want to see evidenced in those we choose to represent us as Sikh Canadians? Are we united in our expectations of excellence and integrity?
I ask those that run for office as a Sikh Canadians; What is your vision for the Sikh identity in this country? Do you have an awareness of how we are perceived versus the reality of how we feel we are? What is your proposal and plan for bringing the issues of Sikh Canadian identity to the fore front of awareness and discussion so that a fair an open dialogue can be had?
I believe that until we have a clear understanding of where we are today as Sikh Canadians and where we want to be, we will not be able to identify the right candidates to represent us. Until that day, we will continue to be victims of divisive politics, unqualified representatives and an identity sullied and defined by those who are the furthest from our core values.
We must discuss, define and plan the future of our identity as Sikh Canadians. We must do it now, before it is defined and decided for us. We must collectively agree and understand what we want from our elected brothers and sisters in representing the Sikh identity. Our commitment to this and our integrity cannot have a cost benefit analysis. If we are to define and defend our identity we must elect the very best and hold them to highest standards. We have removed the Malhi’s, Dhallas, Dhaliwals and the Bains and replaced them with the Gosals and Gills. Are they more qualified to represent and speak for the Sikh Identity? Do they even know what the Sikh Identiy is? Do we? How important is the right to wear a dastaar or kirpan in any location or circumstance important to our identity?
To the fellow commentators on this board that raised the issue that this is Canada and we should leave the issues in India in India, I disagree whole heartedly with you. 1984 witnessed Genocide of the Sikh People and Nation. To ignore it, to forget it, is a weakness of courage and character. Are our newly minted representatives, Gosal and Gill ready to champion the cause for recognition of this Genocide? Or will they bow to Party edicts and ignore it? Do we even care?
We must learn from our Jewish brothers and sisters who have said “Never again” to the atrocities of WWII. Their unwavering commitment to defining and defending their identity, faith and way of being is awe inspiring and commendable. There are approximately 14.1 million Jewish people in the world and about 22.3 million Sikhs. In Canada there are approximately 395,000 Jewish people and about 300,000 Sikhs in Canada. Although we are comparable in numbers, do we compare in how we define, project and protect our identities, faith and values? There are many lessons we can and must learn from our Jewish brothers. We must learn the lessons of unity. We must learn the lessons that education is the only real weapon in the class wars. We must learn to have courage in our convictions. We must learn to demand the very best of those we choose to represent us and we must hold them accountable. Who speaks for us as Sikh Canadians today?
I think Maple Leaf Sikh comes from high elite group of sikhs who feel they understand an know more about the panth then anyone else. Navdeep bains must have been a personal friend that why he or she is so hurt.
come on people smell the roses. this blog i soo out of touch with what really happend and what is taking place. call spade a spade. some people lost this eletion because they where out of touch and out of reach fro the people who actually put them there. the people matter and their sentiments matter also.
Herb……Ruby…..Tim……Jinny…………Are you all sure you're taling about 'Sikh' politicians ? To me it sounds more like the lineup of speakers at the annual christian fellowship convention.
someone is handing out ladoos??? I think I am going to have an akhand path!!!
and also you make some foolish remarks without evidence
I am no Conservative but I voted for Parm Gill to get rid of Ruby
Parm Gill = Official statement on the Kirpan and how he will always stand by it
Parm Gill = Standing in the rain at the Kamal nath protest
Parm Gill = Sur Sagar debate saying we must hold those Indian officials responsible for the massacre of Sikhs responsible
Parm Gill = promising hundreds at his campaign opening with Jim Flaherty that 1984 is the pressing issue and it will be addressed (Nav Bains had Ujjal Dosanjh open his campaign once upon a time)
Mapleleafsikh…your insight is extremely biased and resounds with almost nepotistic opinions of Navdeep Bains – But lets be clear at least we knew Ujjal was the enemy whereas Navdeep was the enemy from within who was behind Iggnatiefs opinion that there was no one behind the petition. Also how do we reconcile support for a party that ran Rana Sarkar as a candidate (By Guru's grace he lost). Also i think Jagmeet Singh should not have to live with something negative – he got rid of a malicious individual and I think it is Malhi's fault that Jagmeet Singh lost…clearly the left should have rallied around the NDP – the liberals cost the NDP the government
I feel it is important to bring to everyone’s attention a few facts that may help people make their own conclusions.
1) Navdeep Singh Bains was NOT invited to the Malton Nagar Kirtan because he supported Bill C-38 the Civil Marriage Act. Bill C-38 also known as the “same-sex” bill and it is also supported by the NDP party and senior members of the Conservative Party such as MP James Moore.
2) As per the Kirpan Issue, here is Navdeep Singh Bains’ Statement in the House on the Quebec Kirpan Issue – Jan. 31, 2011
L'hon. Navdeep Bains (Mississauga—Brampton-Sud, Lib.):
Monsieur le Président, depuis mon élection en 2004, je porte mon kirpan à la Chambre des communes. En 2006, la Cour suprême a confirmé le droit des Sikhs de porter le kirpan.
J'ai visité d'autres parlements, la Cour suprême du Canada et le Congrès américain. Je portais toujours mon kirpan et cela n'a jamais posé de problème.
Il faut que notre discussion soit raisonnable et respectueuse, évitant la rhétorique qui ne cherche qu'à diviser les Canadiens.
Dans mon travail, j'ai toujours fait la promotion du respect et de la compréhension. C'est le Canada dans lequel j'ai grandi et que je veux léguer à mes deux filles.
Soyons raisonnables et équitables. En bref, soyons Canadiens. Respectons notre Charte des droits et libertés.
3) Navdeep Singh Bains’ Statement in the House of Commons on the 1984 Massacre – June 9, 2010
Hon. Navdeep Bains (Mississauga—Brampton South, Lib.):
Mr. Speaker,
In the days following the assassination Indira Gandhi thousands of innocent Sikh men, women and children were slaughtered in the streets of Delhi and other parts of India. A senior researcher at Human Rights Watch writes that “Delhi was a scene of carnage, yet 25 years later the victims are still waiting for justice”.
However, it is important to remember that all humanity was not lost as Hindu, Muslim and Christian families risked their lives in order to shelter and rescue their Sikh neighbours from the blood-thirsty organized mobs.
The real issue according to Human Rights Watch is “The failure of successive Indian governments to bring to justice those responsible for mass revenge attacks on Sikhs after the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi 25 years ago is a severe blot on India's legal system and democracy”.
As Canadians, we will always fight for justice and the protection of human rights; two ideals in any democracy.
India's democracy will be made stronger when it pursues reconciliation and accountability, but none of this will be possible without first making an honest search for the truth.
4) Navdeep Singh Bains DID NOT go to Indira Ghandis Samadh.
@observer – are you a member of the Ontario Gurudwara Commitee – because as far as I know no one gets an invite to the Nagar kirtan if they are Sikh MP, is Nav some kind of hero he needs an invite to come to his community event? Also I want to see if the other commitee invited him or if he just showed up…they did not invite him…and if he has his nose in the air that much that he needs an invite then shows how in touch with reality he is that he requires an invite…also im pretty sure the other committee including his dad was against him voting for gay marriage- so that makes no sense – Tim Uppal shows up to ogc on his own without an invite..yes and nav did make that statement but why didnt he comeoutside with hundreds of his constituents???? Its because he played the dirty game with Iggy to take the shine away from SUkh and Andrew— 100 Percent the other gurdwara commitee comes to malton nagar kirtan so to think he would not be welcome is ridiculous
PS Colleen Beaumier supported the Gay Marriage Bill and she has always been welcomed with open arms to all OGC events..so observer your argument makes no sense
I applaud the author for outlining the distinct lack of unity in the greater community, how much longer will the nation if we can't unify, we've faced hardship for the 300 or more years since we have been established as an organized religion, and we keep on squabling and fighting each other
SHAME ON US, and SHAME ON OUR LEADERS
someone needs to stand up and address this head on and get rid of the feudalistic caste oriented mentality that has kept our psyche as a group and religion POISONED
STAND UP, don't let this insolence continue
I second this, same happens in Punjab, look at all the compromises they've made and how the land is destroyed, diverting all of the water from the land and approving the use of heavy pesticides, the area will be desertified in no time
What a grossly skewed, horrendous and disrespectful article. But im glad that people are debating their views which is always good.
Thanks folks for summing up the status of Sikhs in Canada through these honest discussions.
Reconfirms what I heard – Canadian Sikh population is the most primitive in terms of societal maturity compared to anywhere else – India, UK, Malaysia and the US. Maybe the only place where 1984 'petition' is an election issue. What about drugs, gangs, violence, elder care, jobs, illiteracy? For guidance, maybe they should look at the newly formed PPP in Punjab. Not my favorite political environs but atleast they are talking about job creation, sustainable farming, corruption, pollution, education…
Fools.
OMG, guess what Maple Leaf Sikh. Baljit Gosal is having a Akand Paat at Malton Gurdawra this weekend? Are you happy now?
Or would you only be pleased if he did it at Parliament Hill on the tax payers dollar like Super Sardar Malhi?
I'm being brutally truthfull here when I say that Canada could elect 135 'Sikh' MP's (and I use the term 'sikh' loosely because as an Englishman its mighty difficult to respect the credentials of a 'sikh' going about life with an English Christian name)…….Canada, could elect 135 sikh mp's and even have a new Sikh prime minister but not only would nobody in the world even know……if you mentioned it to anyone they would scratch their head and ask 'what and where is this thing called Canada?' In terms of world politics this election is like the High School student body elections. Not worth getting heated up about and a discussion more suited to local chat forums.
Malhi is holding his last Akand Path in parliament right now, Bhog is next Wedensday. Maple Leaf Sikh is the main speaker…lol i kid i kid.
no no Navdeep Bains will be the main speaker.
JAGMEEET SINGHHH (Y) 😀
Unlike the others, he actually knows how to publicly speak and his position and what he's fighting for is WHAT WE NEED, plus to top it all off, he's amritari and he knows english well and he's a lawyer (they know how to argue 😉 ) oh, and also, he's the new generation, if people my age could vote, then people like Ruby Dhalla wouldn't be in office just because they go to Nagar Kirtans and say Sat Shri Akal.. 😐
If people my age could vote , then Jagmeet Singh would win hands down. TRUST ME every youth is supporting him. He's a great person.. (Y)
Singh Sahib Posted: "This is sickening. People should run for office not to represent the panth but to represent the people in the constituency. When will Sikhs ever understand that we are part of a larger community. Our propensity to consider us "special" has created a massive divide not only in our own community but with Canadians in general. At the end of the day the most qualified individuals deserve to hold office. Malhi, Dhalla, and Grewal are jokes and should be lucky that they have (and still are) sat in the House of Commons. I know I will receive backlash for my comments but I am sure it will originate for the zealots in our community. Unfortunately our community is full of them".
I only had time to read the first page, but let me assure you, this man's comment was the only reasonable one I read on this entire topic. We are not special. We never have been, and with the attitude our so called "leaders" have developed, I don't think we ever will be. We are not Indians, so please stop worrying so much about Indian politics and things that happened 30 years ago. We need to move forward and not spend every waking moment of our lives thinking about the past. Was 1984 horrible? Absolutely. But true Sikhs like Udham Singh fought for INDIA, not Khalistan. Secularism is the basis of Canadian society, and I fear Khalistan would have too much religion in it's government. Stop worrying about who's wearing and turban and who's not. I see groups and organizations set up at every Gurdwara I've been to, groups that claim to fight for "human rights" and "equality", but when we get right down to it, it doesn't take a genius to find out that they only care about themselves and the people of their community (and that's if we're lucky).
Elections aren't high school popularity games; they're the foundation of our society, the rest of western civilization, and everything the free world stands for. So next time, let's all vote for a candidate that actually gives a damn about genuine human rights, someone who isn't afraid to stands up for Canadian values of democracy, equality, liberty, freedom and secularism, regardless of what the guys at the gurdwara may think about that, and most importantly, let's vote vote for a candidate who works to make Canada a better place for ALL Canadians, regardless of his or her skin color, ethnic background or religion, even if we don't get treated like 10 year old spoiled brats for doing so. Here's hoping.
@Canadian Sikh: Who exactly do you think actually "gives a damn about genuine human rights…..blah blah bla…?" did you mean Harper or other white Canadians? Other than Lt. Gen. Romeo Dallaire who in Canada has or does stand for these values? Also WTF are Canadian values? Having lived here for over 20+ years I still have to work out what this means….sexual abuse of native children perhaps? Komagata Maru?
@Meena: Blah Blah Blah? Human Rights aren't something to joke about, and you should be damn proud that you live in a country that holds them in such high regard.
Me saying that we should choose candidates based on their desire to uphold human rights has very little to do with a specific political party, and has absolutely nothing to do with the color of a person's skin. It is an absolute disgrace that Sikhs in Canada are going to elect a politician simply because he or she is making a big deal out of 1984. Pick a leader who cares about the future of this country, not someone who is going to defend a bunch of suspected terrorists just to win a few votes.
I feel sorry for you. You've been in this country for 20 years and have not figured out what it means to be Canadian. Here's what I think:
Being Canadian means being part of a nation that, on an increasingly shadowy planet, still burns brightly.
Being Canadian means being part of a nation that can be trusted to forthcoming and upright in dealings with other nations and people.
Being Canadian means not being part of a machine that trumpets high ideals, ethics, and values falsely while doing the exact opposite, either at home or abroad.
Being Canadian means being born in a country when you can see, and perhaps one day understand, the majesty of nature.
Being Canadian means having the opportunity to participate in global issues.
Being Canadian means having the opportunity to see that Earth is a planet of many nations and peoples.
Being Canadian means having the ability, rightly or wrongly, to do almost whatever you feel like, without having to worry about the consequences.
Being Canadian means not having to experience prejudice or racism to the degree that you might otherwise experience in another part of the world, even other developed parts.
Being Canadian means being mobile. Canadians can go anywhere in the world. Not all nationalities can say this.
Being Canadian means having the ability to change, the ability to recover from great disasters, and the chance to soar to great heights, at almost any time in life.
The forefathers of America pictured an America which would have been similar to today's Canada. A benevolent country that has social democratic programs for the advancement of all it's citizens. The system is not perfect as our American cousins continue to remind us, but it's up to us Canadians to remind our elected officials to adhere to The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms for all our people. The advancement of our country as a collective group will strengthen our good will, rather than just being focused on the needs of the privileged. I truly believe all us Canadians do care for each other along with the freedom and opportunities our country allows us to enjoy. I am proud to be a Canadian Citizen.
@Canadian Sikh: If you really believe all this S#*T then you are the one that deserves people's sympathy! I truly feel sorry for you because you are an Ad man's dream. I suspect you buy all the products advertised on TV and in magazines!
It is because of naive people like you that the Canadian government has managed to get away with bombing and maiming innocent civilians including children and women in places like Afghanistan; because of people like you who believe in all this hype that native children sexually abused in state schools have yet to receive justice.
We need politicians who will stand up for people's human rights for all not just Canadian interests…that includes the victims of 1984 some of who have sought refuge in this country; that includes the aboriginals and other marginalized groups.
And yes, skin colour is paramount in Canada. If you doubt that then I invite you to Vancouver where downtown and in prime real estate co-op housing is given to white European refugees and new immigrants by the government and local groups not to black Africans or Tamils or other groups escaping genocide.
Wake up buddy and smell the coffee and lets drop the nationalist crap!