On October 6, 2020, the Poetic Justice Foundation facilitated a pivotal dialogue, engaging in a transparent and insightful discussion on the multifaceted Khalistan movement, both within local contexts and across the global Sikh Diaspora. This dialogue served as an essential counterpoint to a report by the MacDonald Laurier Institute, which was critiqued for its racist and anti-Sikh perspectives.
Our conversation courageously tackled some of the most pressing questions facing the Sikh community and its allies, particularly around the contentious issue of Khalistan. We explored the deep divisions and the strong support within the community, asking:
What are the reasons behind the significant opposition to Khalistan among Sikhs and their allies?
What makes the topic of Khalistan so divisive within the community?
Why, despite criticisms, does the concept of Khalistan continue to garner support?
We delved into the complexities surrounding the notion of Khalistan, considering its geopolitical implications, questions about its economic sustainability, fears of establishing a puritanical regime, and concerns over repeating historical patterns of caste-based oppression.
Furthermore, our discussion aimed to unpack the current status of the Khalistan movement and the nature of its demands, addressing why Khalistan is often viewed as a notion more appealing to the diaspora than to those residing in India. Through this event, we sought to provide a comprehensive critique and foster a deeper understanding of this highly debated topic.
Dr. Jaspreet Kaur Bal, Child and Youth Care Professor and Practioner, World Sikh Organization Board
Moninder Singh, BC Gurdwara Council
Mo Dhaliwal, Co-founder Poetic Justice Foundation
Hosted by the Poetic Justice Foundation and McGill University's Department of Integrated Studies in Education, this event marked an important dialogue during Dalit History Month.
As Israel continued their genocidal attacks on the people of Palestine, a collective came together to educate, raise awareness and mobilize the global community to stand up for human rights and stop the bloodshed.
This urgent discussion on November 7th aimed to unpack the complexities of the Sikh experience in Canada, spotlighting both its triumphs and ongoing challenges, as well as analysis of dangers posed by foreign interference, censorship, intimidation and physical harm to activists, academics and journalists
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