Sikh children in New Zealand schools are increasingly finding themselves in an identity crisis, as their heritage and individuality are overlooked. Despite being born in New Zealand and identifying as Kiwis, they are often told to associate themselves with India, a country that many feel does not represent their history or struggles. In some schools, Sikh children are asked to draw the Indian flag, and teachers label their biographies with statements like "I am Indian." This has left many Sikh families feeling excluded and misunderstood in a country they call home.

A Historical Struggle for Identity

The Sikh community’s resistance to being labeled as Indian is deeply rooted in history. On January 26, 1950, when the Indian Constitution was adopted, Sikhs were officially categorized as Hindus under Article 25. Sikh leaders at the time refused to sign the Constitution, as it failed to recognize their unique identity. This marked the beginning of the Sikh struggle for an independent nation, Khalistan, a movement brutally suppressed by the Indian government.

The atrocities against Sikhs escalated over the decades, including the 1984 anti-Sikh genocide, where thousands were killed in government-backed violence. In the years that followed, Sikh youths were targeted in fake police encounters, with extrajudicial killings continuing to this day. Just last month, three Sikh youths were reportedly killed in such encounters. This grim history has forced many Sikhs to flee India and settle in countries like New Zealand, Canada, and the UK, hoping to escape persecution.

Facing the Same Challenges Abroad

Even after escaping the hardships in India, Sikhs continue to face challenges abroad, especially in asserting their distinct identity. In New Zealand, the lack of awareness about Sikhism plays a significant role in this issue. Many people, including educators, automatically associate Sikhs with India, failing to recognize their separate religious and cultural identity. This leaves Sikh children caught between their Kiwi upbringing and the imposed label of being Indian.

Parents have expressed frustration over this issue, but many hesitate to speak out, fearing isolation or backlash. Some feel unequipped to explain the history and the reasons why they do not want their children to be labeled as Indian.

Missed Opportunities for Awareness

While Indian organizations in New Zealand actively promote their narrative, Kiwi Sikh organizations have largely fallen short in raising awareness about Sikh identity. Despite having the resources to educate the public, these organizations often focus on hosting expensive tournaments or networking with political leaders, which does little to address the core issue.

Instead of spending millions on events that serve personal or organizational egos, Sikh organizations could channel these funds into creating awareness campaigns about Sikhism. Educational workshops, school programs, and community outreach initiatives could help build understanding and respect for Sikh identity among New Zealanders.

The Way Forward

To combat this identity crisis, several steps need to be taken:

1. Awareness Programs: Sikh organizations should prioritize educational campaigns to inform schools and communities about Sikhism, its history, and its distinct identity.

2. Representation in Education: Schools need to be more inclusive by involving Sikh representatives in discussions about cultural identity and curriculum design.

3. Empowering Parents: Sikh parents should be encouraged and supported to voice their concerns without fear of being singled out.

4. Dialogue with Authorities: Engaging with government and education leaders to ensure that Sikh children are recognized as Kiwis, not forced into labels that don’t represent them.

New Zealand prides itself on being a multicultural and inclusive society. Addressing the concerns of the Sikh community is essential to maintaining that ideal. It’s time for educators, Sikh organizations, and the wider community to come together to ensure that every child, including Kiwi Sikh kids, feels accepted and valued for who they truly are.