Every April, Sikh communities across Canada come together to celebrate Sikh Heritage Month. It’s a time to honor the vibrant history, culture, and contributions of Sikh Canadians. This year in Timmins, Ontario, the local Sikh community was excited to continue its annual tradition of raising the Sikh flag at City Hall—until a sudden policy change left them without approval.
A Surprising Turn of Events
For several years, the City of Timmins had allowed the Sikh Heritage flag to be raised at City Hall, often alongside the Canadian flag. This year, however, the request was denied. According to organizers from the Timmins Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship), city officials cited policies that prevent certain flags—particularly those connected to political or religious groups—from being flown on municipal property.
“For some unknown circumstances, we were not allowed to raise our flag at the city hall,” said Daisy Bains, co-founder of the Timmins Gurdwara.
Bains explained that she had submitted the request well in advance, in February, hoping for a straightforward continuation of a cherished annual tradition. Instead, she was informed that the city had previously allowed the flag-raising as a favor and would no longer be doing so.
Shifting the Celebration
Despite the disappointment, the Sikh community adapted by moving the flag-raising to the second floor of the Gurdwara itself, which also houses a Sikh Heritage museum. There, the community members raised the Sikh flag alongside the Canadian flag in a symbolic gesture of unity.
The event was still well-attended. Mayor Michelle Boileau (referred to as “Mayer Michele Bois” in the raw text, though the correct name appears to be Boileau) and other local dignitaries, including Councillor Steve Black, Timmins Police Chief Syd Gravel, and Constable Ishan Bhullar, took part in a formal proclamation to recognize April as Sikh Heritage Month. Bains noted that the Gurdwara’s new museum and library will remain open to the public throughout April, allowing residents to learn more about Sikh heritage.
“We are here with the city to celebrate our heritage. This has nothing to do with religion,” Bains emphasized.
Community Response
The sudden change left many community members feeling confused and let down, especially since other municipalities across Ontario have continued to raise flags in recognition of Sikh Heritage Month. Bains expressed disappointment that the denial came so late in the process, leaving her with little time to notify attendees of the switch in location.
“I thought we were all on the same page. I guess it’s their concern that if they do it for my organization, then they’re going to have to do it for the other organizations,” she said.
In an effort to gain clarity, Bains reached out to local MP George Pirie, who has reportedly been supportive and is looking further into the matter.
While the community did not get to raise its flag at City Hall this year, the spirit of Sikh Heritage Month remains strong. By hosting the event at the Gurdwara, the organizers found a meaningful way to celebrate their culture and share it with the broader public. Attendees were able to tour the newly established museum space and learn about Sikh history, traditions, and contributions to Canadian society.
Looking ahead, the Sikh community in Timmins hopes for clearer communication and cooperation with the city. Bains and other organizers remain optimistic that, in the future, the city’s guidelines will allow for inclusive celebrations that recognize all cultural and heritage events.
The Timmins Sikh community’s experience this April underscores the importance of open dialogue and consistent policies when it comes to recognizing diverse cultural celebrations. Despite the unexpected denial to raise their flag at City Hall, local Sikhs adapted by hosting a successful proclamation ceremony and flag-raising at their own Gurdwara museum. As Sikh Heritage Month continues, the community’s commitment to sharing and celebrating its rich heritage stands as a testament to resilience and unity in the face of unforeseen challenges.