Be Human First

Facts, Faith, and Freedom

  • Be Human First

    Facts, Faith, and Freedom in Aotearoa New Zealand

    We calmly address misinformation, hostility, and fear-based narratives directed at the Sikh community. It does not exist to provoke, threaten, or attack any individual or belief. Its purpose is to present facts, historical context, and lived reality so that public discussion can be grounded in truth rather than hate or fear.

    Peaceful Faith, Not Provocation

    Recent public commentary and online behavior has shown that some individuals and groups have deliberately targeted Sikhs through inflammatory language, misrepresentation of religious symbols, and collective blame. These actions have included attempts to interrupt peaceful religious processions, online harassment, and rhetoric suggesting that Sikhs are a threat to public safety or national identity.

    The Sikh response to such targeting has not been violence, retaliation, or intimidation. Sikh teachings emphasise restraint, dignity, and trust in justice. Sikhs do not seek confrontation in the streets or online. They rely on the rule of law, democratic institutions, and lawful authorities to address wrongdoing where it exists.

    Sikh philosophy is clear: justice must be pursued through righteous means. There is no teaching within Sikhism that permits harming innocent people, provoking unrest, or undermining civil order.

    What Sikhs Were Chanting

    Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal is a declaration of faith and a greeting used by Sikhs worldwide. It means, “Whoever proclaims ‘Sat Sri Akal’ shall be fulfilled or blessed.” “Sat” means Truth. “Akal” means Timeless. The message is simple and universal: God is Truth, and Truth is Timeless.

    This chant is not a political slogan, not a challenge to other religions, and not a claim of superiority. It is a statement of faith centred on truth, humility, and moral living.

    Teachers, Not Gods

    In Sikh belief, God is formless, timeless, and beyond human incarnation. Figures such as Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh are revered as spiritual teachers and guides, not as God. Similarly, Sikhism recognises figures such as Jesus and Muhammad as teachers and messengers within their own traditions, not as God. This theological position is an explanation of Sikh belief, not a judgement of other faiths.

    The Kirpan: Symbol of Responsibility

    The kirpan is one of the five articles of faith worn by initiated Sikhs. It symbolises the duty to protect the vulnerable, stand against injustice, and live with moral discipline. In modern practice, kirpans are typically small, secured, and ceremonial. There is no credible evidence or historical record of Sikhs using the kirpan as a tool for mass violence, terrorism, or public harm in New Zealand. Globally, Sikhs are recognised as one of the most law-abiding religious communities.

    Sikh History and Global Conduct

    Throughout history, Sikhs have not engaged in campaigns of ethnic cleansing or religious genocide. On the contrary, Sikh history is defined by resistance to oppression, protection of minorities, and defence of religious freedom including for those of other faiths.

    Sikh tradition explicitly rejects forced conversion, religious supremacy, and collective punishment. Historical conflicts involving Sikhs have been defensive in nature, arising from persecution or the need to protect civilians, not to dominate or erase other communities.

    Sikh Contribution in World War I and II

    Sikhs made significant contributions during both World War I and World War II, serving in large numbers across the British and Commonwealth forces. Despite being a small global population, Sikhs were disproportionately represented in frontline combat roles.

    During World War I, over 100,000 Sikhs served, with tens of thousands killed or wounded. They fought in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Gallipoli. In World War II, Sikh soldiers again served across multiple theatres, earning numerous gallantry awards for bravery and sacrifice.

    These soldiers did not fight to impose their religion. They fought to defend freedom, resist tyranny, and protect civilian populations values that align closely with the principles they continue to live by today.

    Sikhs in New Zealand

    Sikhs have lived in New Zealand for over a century. They work, pay taxes, raise families, and contribute across sectors including agriculture, transport, healthcare, construction, and small business. In times of crisis, Sikh communities have consistently provided food, shelter, and support to anyone in need, without regard to religion or background, and with absolutely no need or desire to promote themselves for it.

    Be Human First

    Sikhism teaches that before nationality, before religion, before identity, we are human. Justice is not taken by force but pursued through lawful means. Freedom of religion only has meaning when it applies to everyone.

    Fear thrives on misinformation. Truth thrives on understanding. A strong and fair New Zealand is built on law, dignity, and mutual respect.