Labour launches Sikh Friends

Labour launches Sikh Friends
Tue, May 05, 2009 12:10:17

A new group to forge links between the Sikh community and the Labour Party was by Sikh MP Parmjit Dhanda and Labour Party Vice Chair for Faith Groups, Stephen Timms MP.

‘Sikh Friends of Labour’ was launched in Parliament on Thursday 30th April at a celebration event timed to coincide with Vaisakhi, the festival which celebrates the founding of the Sikh nation.

The new group has been formed by Sikhs and MPs from across the country and will provide a platform for Sikhs to come together to share their views and have their voices heard in the Labour Party.

Parmjit Dhanda MP said: “The Sikh community has made an invaluable contribution to British life.I am proud of my Sikh heritage and I know that many Sikhs would value the opportunity to work closely with the Labour Party on the issues that matter to them.Sikh Friends of Labour will provide an important forum for UK Sikhs to have their voices heard not only in the Labour Party but also in the very heart of government.”

Stephen Timms MP said:“We in the Labour Party need to do all we can to reach out to Sikh communities in Britain. I know that many Sikhs are passionate about what Labour stands for and see parallels between the Sikh value of Sewa and the values that underpin the Labour Party.

I would like to thank everyone who has worked so hard to make Sikh Friends of Labour a reality. I hope the group will thrive for many years to come.”

Lord King said “We should not forget that Labour was the political party that opened its doors to us, allowing us to look at politics as careers

“Today there is a need for young people to consider joining the Labour party as it has so many trends that are in keeping with Sikh virtues”

Harriet Harman, Minister for women also joined the fifty Sikh men and women who attended the launch

Parmjit Dhanda’s proud parents were also at the launch as were Rob Narris MP. Fiona McTaggart MP and hopeful candidates for the European Elections Sukhjit Dhaliwal and Rajinder Singh.

with thanks : Source : http://www.emgonline.co.uk/news.php?news=4903

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