Punjabi Sikhs were the first South Asians to move to North America. As far back as 1670, a Sikh was mentioned in the diary of a Colonist, as having been encountered in the company of a sea captain. They were a curiosity as South Asian migration had yet to occur. In 1903, a small trickle of Punjabis arrived in North America through Canada and half traveled onto the United States. Of them, the majority were illiterate or semi-literate from farming or military backgrounds. They left minimal records. However, the balance of their group proved to be highly educated professionals and students who diligently recorded their experiences. (Jasbir Singh Kang, UNK)
Cultural considerations: Punjabi Sikhs who are Initiated (a public proclamation of adherence to the faith) often wear the following Articles of Faith: 1). Kesh: The term “Kesh” is defined as uncut hair. Hair is considered a gift from God and is not removed. Sikh’s may choose to collect their hair from their brushes instead of disposing it. Male Sikh’s may hold contain their hair with a string tucked behind the ears and beneath a turban. Females may wear a head scarf. The headcovering is considered sacred and not to be touched by others. 2). Kanga: This is a wooden comb. It is use on the hair and then worn within it, to symbolize hygiene and the removal or moral impurities. 3). Kirpan: As the primary intention of Sikhism is to champion social justice, they are reminded with the wearing of a stylized sword. The Kirpan is to be worn at all times, but not to be used as a weapon. There is no provision for making it from wood or rubber therefore safety protocols may need to be addressed to accommodate the Kirpan. 4). Kachera: These are loose pants that end at the knee and they represent sexual morality. They are worn by both genders at all times; even during bathing and childbirth (pants tied around one leg). 5). Kara: A bangle bracelet that may not be removable if the Sikh has grown around it. It represents the bond with the Guru (founder) and the eternalness of God. Children raised in an Initiated household may be raised with the dietary and cultural restrictions of their parents even though they may not be Initiated themselves. (Services, 2013) Cultural response sets There is a strong preference for males in Sikhism. Males are required to light their father’s funeral fire and to observe annual ceremonies. They are also charged with protecting the women in their family. As they value purity, body discharge is considered unclean. Therefore, females of childbearing age who menstruate are considered “impure” and lesser than the males. Once menstruation ends, the female can approach the male level of purity. (Sidhu & Coward, 2000) Women still marry with dowries. The male Sikh may have dominance over the members of his family and his consent may be necessary for program participation. It is expected that Sikhs will become “householders” and raise a family to contribute to the community. Being a recluse, loner, celibate, or a nun or monk defy the admonition, “To raise a family; to earn honestly; to …show more content…
This person has a memory of their many past lives and a connection with God. Therefore, abortion is considered the ending of a life by returning it to its cycle. (Sidhu & Coward, 2000)
When Sikhs become Initiated, they adopt dietary restrictions which can range from veganism to simply rejection of any meat that does not follow their “cruelty free” slaughter practices.
The removal of Kesh (body hair) is considered the disrespect of everything that God has provided.
Additional taboos are: intoxication, meaningless rituals, pilgrimages, fasting, a compulsory veil on a woman’s face, gossip, infidelity, and a priestly caste.
Cultural attitudes: Sikhism began in India in the 15th century and believes strongly in equality and justice for all. (Services, 2013) Sikhism has a duty-based as opposed to a rights-based cultural paradigm. (Sidhu & Coward, 2000) They value purity and cleanliness. They believe in the wholeness of the individual, including his spirituality. Concepts such as karma and rebirth are embraced. The preservation and protection of the family are paramount, and, as such they value community more than individuality. There is also a strong preference for
Cultural considerations: Punjabi Sikhs who are Initiated (a public proclamation of adherence to the faith) often wear the following Articles of Faith: 1). Kesh: The term “Kesh” is defined as uncut hair. Hair is considered a gift from God and is not removed. Sikh’s may choose to collect their hair from their brushes instead of disposing it. Male Sikh’s may hold contain their hair with a string tucked behind the ears and beneath a turban. Females may wear a head scarf. The headcovering is considered sacred and not to be touched by others. 2). Kanga: This is a wooden comb. It is use on the hair and then worn within it, to symbolize hygiene and the removal or moral impurities. 3). Kirpan: As the primary intention of Sikhism is to champion social justice, they are reminded with the wearing of a stylized sword. The Kirpan is to be worn at all times, but not to be used as a weapon. There is no provision for making it from wood or rubber therefore safety protocols may need to be addressed to accommodate the Kirpan. 4). Kachera: These are loose pants that end at the knee and they represent sexual morality. They are worn by both genders at all times; even during bathing and childbirth (pants tied around one leg). 5). Kara: A bangle bracelet that may not be removable if the Sikh has grown around it. It represents the bond with the Guru (founder) and the eternalness of God. Children raised in an Initiated household may be raised with the dietary and cultural restrictions of their parents even though they may not be Initiated themselves. (Services, 2013) Cultural response sets There is a strong preference for males in Sikhism. Males are required to light their father’s funeral fire and to observe annual ceremonies. They are also charged with protecting the women in their family. As they value purity, body discharge is considered unclean. Therefore, females of childbearing age who menstruate are considered “impure” and lesser than the males. Once menstruation ends, the female can approach the male level of purity. (Sidhu & Coward, 2000) Women still marry with dowries. The male Sikh may have dominance over the members of his family and his consent may be necessary for program participation. It is expected that Sikhs will become “householders” and raise a family to contribute to the community. Being a recluse, loner, celibate, or a nun or monk defy the admonition, “To raise a family; to earn honestly; to …show more content…
This person has a memory of their many past lives and a connection with God. Therefore, abortion is considered the ending of a life by returning it to its cycle. (Sidhu & Coward, 2000)
When Sikhs become Initiated, they adopt dietary restrictions which can range from veganism to simply rejection of any meat that does not follow their “cruelty free” slaughter practices.
The removal of Kesh (body hair) is considered the disrespect of everything that God has provided.
Additional taboos are: intoxication, meaningless rituals, pilgrimages, fasting, a compulsory veil on a woman’s face, gossip, infidelity, and a priestly caste.
Cultural attitudes: Sikhism began in India in the 15th century and believes strongly in equality and justice for all. (Services, 2013) Sikhism has a duty-based as opposed to a rights-based cultural paradigm. (Sidhu & Coward, 2000) They value purity and cleanliness. They believe in the wholeness of the individual, including his spirituality. Concepts such as karma and rebirth are embraced. The preservation and protection of the family are paramount, and, as such they value community more than individuality. There is also a strong preference for