Sikhs are being recognised by the US Census Bureau as a ¡°distinct¡± ethnic group. This is the first time it is happening in the country. As per a report in India Today, this is a step towards a new identity other than ¡°Asian Indian¡± category for people who hail from India and are called Indian-Americans.?
A few experts are of the opinion that the move could add more fuel to the fire of Sikh separatists who promote the idea of Khalistan in USA, Canada and other countries in the west.?
But others feel that this will make Sikhs feel less 'invisible'.?
Sikhs have always tried to create a separate identity for themselves in USA. Particularly after 9/11, when they became a target of hate crimes because often they were mistaken for Muslims.?
¡°Sikhs have borne the brunt of hate and bias crimes, especially since the tragedy of 9/11. Sikh children in schools across the nation are bullied at twice the national average,¡± said Gundeep Singh, media coordinator for United Sikhs.?
¡°Sikhs just want their religious identity to be recognised as distinct,¡± said KC Singh, former Indian ambassador.?
It is a big step for the Sikhs in USA. A community that has always been associated with helping those in need, it is now looking for its own identity in the land of opportunity.?
Now they can ¡°self identify¡± by writing ¡°Sikh¡± in answer to the question on race and will be under a separate code.