Editing:2020.09.24 COVID resources

September 24, 2020 (New York, NY) -- Earlier this week, the United States crossed the unthinkably tragic line of 200,000 deaths due to COVID-19.

The Sikh Coalition mourns those we have lost and empathizes with all who have been adversely affected by this pandemic. As millions of Americans continue to feel the burden of this ongoing public health crisis, we remain committed to providing updated resources for the Sikh American community in order to meet the unique challenges of this time.

As a reminder, our full library of English and Punjabi resources can be found on our website. The collection includes a healthcare guide to inform doctors about Sikh patients’ needs, details about government aid programs and employee rights, and guidance for keeping children safe. You can also find information specific to a range of career fields, from taxi drivers to healthcare professionals.

We also continue to look for light in the darkness. In addition to making our archive of digital programming--whether it be 17 weeks of the Sikh Coalition Kid’s Corner, or 35+ panels from the Summer Series--available online, the Sikh Coalition continues to elevate stories of inspiring seva being done by sangats across the country. View some of the most recent local and national news coverage of this amazing work here.

As you look towards the fall, we urge you to pursue civic engagement safely. Rather than canvassing in person, consider joining our initiative to call Sikh voters from home; you can also review our information about voting by mail as an alternative to standing in line at your local polling place. It is possible--and essential--to make your voice heard in our democracy while continuing to combat the pandemic.

In accordance with guidance from public health leaders, we continue to believe that it is important to take extraordinary measures to limit attendance to those who need services from the gurdwara (e.g. meals, shelter, and/or healthcare) in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. Many gurdwaras continue to suspend their regular divaans in order to limit the number of people at the gurdwara at any given time, and some have moved to a pick-up or delivery model for safely packaged langar or groceries for those who need it.

Please note that these and other social distancing efforts are meant to protect our sangats: They will allow us to support those who are underserved and vulnerable, as is our responsibility. It remains critical that we each continue to make the best choices for the health and safety of all. Together, we will weather this time of crisis by continuing to adapt, and insisting on being compassionate towards our fellow human beings.

As always, the Sikh Coalition urges you to practice your faith fearlessly.

Solemnly Marking 200,000 COVID-19 Deaths