Sikh American Heritage Toolkit

Objectives

  • Provide resources to expand and enrich teaching of AAPI History and Heritage

  • Promote knowledge about the history, practices, values, and experiences of Sikh Americans

  • Recognize the struggles and successes of the Sikh American community

Sikhs have been in the United States for over 120 years, and yet this community has frequently been overlooked or erased due to a lack of understanding of this distinct faith tradition. While there has been (much needed) increased attention to the history and current experiences of the highly diverse AAPI communities in the U.S., Sikh Americans are still largely absent from curricular materials and initiatives intended to educate about the experiences and perspectives of AAPI communities.

This Toolkit aids educators in increasing the representation of Sikh Americans in stories of both the challenges and accomplishments of Asian Americans and religious minorities. The Toolkit is organized around three themes: Foundations, Historical Perspectives, and Windows & Mirrors.

Foundations

The first section of the Toolkit builds essential knowledge and skills for learning about Sikhi and for developing cultural and religious literacy. Materials introduce the history, practices, and values of Sikhi. Additional resources provide guidance on integrating study about Sikhi into the curriculum.

  • American Academy of Religion Guidelines for Teaching about Religion in K-12 Public Schools in the United States

    C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standard — Religious Studies Supplement begins on page 92

    Finding Common Ground: A First Amendment Guide to Religion and Public Schools

    A Teacher's Guide to Religion in the Public Schools

Historical Perspectives

Sikhism was founded on the revolutionary ideas of equality, the worth of every individual, and selfless service to all. From 16th century India to 21st century America, Sikhs have lived out these values to foster better communities for all people. The case studies in this section of the Toolkit focus on the often untold stories of Sikhs in U.S. history.

CASE STUDIES

Defining Citizenship: United States v. Bhagat Singh Thind (1923) [PDF]

Right to Wear a Turban Case Study*

Windows & Mirrors

Although Sikh identity is often very visible on the surface, the history, practices, beliefs, and experiences of Sikh Americans are almost entirely invisible, in public discourse and in public schools. The resources in this section provide windows into the lives and experiences of Sikh Americans while also creating opportunities for Sikh students to see themselves reflected in the curriculum.

CASE STUDIES

Representations of Sikh Americans in the Media: Gallery Walk Activity

Sikh Values in Action Case Study*

Suggestions or requests for additional toolkit content?
Reach out to education@kaurfoundation.org