Image Credit: Screen capture from CPAC Youtube Channel – click to view video in Youtube.
On May 4, 2024, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau delivered a keynote address at the Sikh Foundation of Canada’s annual Gala held at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. The event celebrated Sikh heritage and recognized significant contributions by the Sikh community to Canadian society. A highlight of the evening was the announcement of a significant donation of artifacts by the Sikh Foundation of Canada. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) now hosts Canada’s first permanent space dedicated to Sikh art donated by the Kapany Collection.
Key Highlights:
- Investment Announcement: $6 million for a Sikh art gallery at the ROM.
- Sikh Art at the MMFA: Artifacts donated by the Sikh Foundation and Kapany Collection displayed at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
- Tributes: Honoring pioneers like Private Buckham Singh.
- Community Assurance: Commitment to justice and safety.
- Inspiring Speeches: Insights from Liberal MPs and community leaders.
- Looking Forward: Trudeau’s pledge to continue supporting the Sikh community.
Prime Minister Trudeau announced a major initiative: a $6 million investment from the recent federal budget to create a dedicated space for Sikh art and culture at the Royal Ontario Museum. This new gallery will celebrate the rich history and cultural heritage of the Sikh community in Canada, highlighting their resilience, bravery, and dedication to equality. One of the highlights of Trudeau’s speech was his tribute to Private Buckham Singh, who came to Canada in 1907 and became the first Sikh Canadian to serve in the Canadian Army during World War I. Singh’s story is a powerful reminder of the contributions and sacrifices made by Sikh Canadians throughout history. Trudeau also addressed the recent arrests related to the 2023 murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, reassuring the audience that Canada’s commitment to justice and safety for all its citizens remains unwavering. “Let us remain calm, let us remain steadfast,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of adhering to democratic principles during trying times.
In addition to the Royal Ontario Museum’s new gallery, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) now hosts Canada’s first permanent space dedicated to Sikh art, located on the fourth floor of the Jean-Noël Desmarais Pavilion. This collection, enriched by the generosity of Dr. Narinder Singh Kapany and Satinder Kaur Kapany of the Sikh Foundation International, features exquisite depictions of Sikh Gurus, Maharajas, ritual objects, and rare nanakshahi coins. The MMFA’s dedication to showcasing Sikh art underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating the cultural heritage of Sikh Canadians. Trudeau’s speech underscored this commitment, emphasizing that the story of Sikh Canadians is an integral part of Canada’s broader narrative, resonating deeply with all attendees.