January 23, 2019 (New York, NY) - As the U.S. government shutdown continues into its fifth week, hundreds of thousands of government employees remain unpaid, with many struggling to pay bills and provide basic essentials for their families. The shutdown is also having a painful impact on government programs that
serve some of the most vulnerable Americans.
Inspired by many of our own community members and interfaith partners,
including some Sikh sangat members supplying necessities to government employees and vulnerable Americans suffering during the government shutdown, the Sikh Coalition is calling on gurdwaras (Sikh houses of worship) and Sikh community leaders to provide seva to those currently in need nationwide.
“While we don’t know how long this government shutdown will continue, thousands of government employees and those depending on government programs are suffering right now and could use our collective help,” said Sikh Coalition Executive Director Satjeet Kaur.
FIVE WAYS YOUR SANGAT CAN TAKE ACTION:
- Provide langar (free community kitchen) to federal workers and those adversely affected by the government shutting down programs in your area; organize donations to local food pantries or organize a langar.
- Deliver gift cards for gas and groceries to federal workers furloughed in your area.
- Partner or volunteer with another nonprofit or interfaith organization already coordinating support efforts in your local area.
- Organize a national park clean up.
- Support a local business providing direct support to furloughed government employees.
If your local sangat is providing direct support in response to the government shutdown, please share your stories and pictures with the Sikh Coalition by emailing
contact@sikhcoalition.org. The Sikh Coalition will share your seva across our social media channels. As always, the Sikh Coalition urges you to practice your faith fearlessly.
.jpg)
