In late summer of the United States’ 250th anniversary year, Sikh leaders came together in Houston to examine the unique role their faith community has played in upholding and enriching America’s religious diversity. Held in partnership with the Sikh Coalition, this convening drew Sikh public servants, activists, and nonprofit leaders together to discuss religious liberty and democracy in America.

“Our distinct identity needs to be a little more understood, a little more shared,” said Sikh Coalition supporter Manmohan Singh. “It is our responsibility to share with everybody else in this country who we are, what we do, what our principles are … we’re more similar than we are different.”

Participants reflected on how they understand pluralism and its value in a diverse democracy.

Education Advisory Councilmember at the Sikh Coalition, Dr. Hamdeep Singh, reflected, “pluralism means people of all faiths and all walks of life working together and being able to function together and learn from each other.”

As Sikh leaders look to the next 250 years, they reflect on the values — human dignity, equality, and service — that have and will continue to guide them.

“No matter what faith someone follows, what they believe in,” said Sikh Coalition board member, Prabhjot Singh, “you should see them as someone who has light of God in them. We are all originating from the same place. All our differences make us unique, make us beautiful, and together it makes a beautiful bouquet.”