; Whereas, in 1957, Dalip Singh Saund became the first Sikh American, the first Indian American, and the first Asian American elected to the United States House of Representatives; Whereas Sikh Americans today still face attacks on their identity and culture, including hate crimes that tragically claim lives, as in Elk Grove, California, in 2011 and Oak Creek, Wisconsin, in 2012; Whereas despite this troubling history, Sikh Americans today have overcome these challenges to become successful in all aspects of American life and openly celebrate their culture through events at gurdwaras, parades, and festivals; Whereas members of the Sikh community continue to make outstanding contributions to the economic vibrancy of the region in industries including agriculture, transportation, education, medicine, and retail; Whereas the Sikh community’s generous philanthropy has assisted many and serves as a testimony of the commitment of Sikhs to the teachings of Guru Nanak and their love of country; Whereas Sikh elected officials increasingly and proudly represent their respective communities in public office; Whereas the patriotic efforts of Lieutenant Colonel Kamal Kalsi helped open the door to Sikhs serving their country in the Armed Forces while maintaining their religious traditions and culture; Whereas an increasing number of Sikh young people have been inspired by Lieutenant Colonel Kalsi’s example and have enlisted in the Armed Forces in recent years; and Whereas Sikh Americans have been an invaluable part of the United States for more than a century, and the Sikh American community continues to make unique cultural contributions that enrich the diversity of American life: Now, therefore, be it