DUNCAN, British Columbia, September 8, 2024

The story of Canada is made up of countless diverse histories. Canada’s cultural fabric, shaped by the contributions of so many different communities, is richer and stronger because of this. When we share these stories, we build bridges, create understanding, and bring communities together.

For more than a hundred years, Sikh Canadians have made significant contributions that have helped shape the Canada we know and love and they continue to play a key role in the growth and prosperity of their communities.

Today, the Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, and the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, visited the Gurdwara Sahib Paldi in Duncan to highlight Budget 2024 investments supporting Sikh heritage and culture across Canada.

Through Budget 2024, the government will invest $1.8 million 2024-25 in the Indus Media Foundation in Surrey, B.C. for the completion of a short film highlighting the shared military heritage of Canadian and Indian soldiers in the First and Second World Wars. Starting in 2024–25, the government will also invest $11 million over two years to build new museums and cultural centres, including $6 million in support for the Sikh Arts & Culture Foundation and the Royal Ontario Museum’s project to create a space in Toronto dedicated to Sikh arts, culture and heritage.

With this budget, the government is highlighting the immense contributions that Sikh Canadians have made to our country while also making critical investments to build a stronger and fairer Canada for generations to come.