Sikh Channel, the world’s first 24/7 Sikh-faith based TV channel, celebrated Turban Awareness Day at the Houses of Parliament with their annual event raising awareness of the symbolism of the Turban in Sikh culture and of the need to continue to stand against race hate. 

The event, which was organised with Seema Malhotra MP, Labour & Co-operative Party MP for Feltham and Heston, brought together 45 Members of Parliament from across the political spectrum and a number of ministers to learn about and show their support for Sikh culture, try on the Turban for themselves, and to say no to race hate crime. 

According to Home Office data released in 2018, the number of ‘religious hate crimes’ in the United Kingdom rose by 40% between 2016 and 2018 – rising to 8,336 between 2017-18, and race hate crimes in that period rose to 71,251 in that same period. 

Commenting on the importance of the event, Davinder Singh Bal, CEO of the Sikh Channel, said: “We’re very happy that so many political representatives have come out in support of Turban Awareness Day to support Sikh culture, and make a stand against religious and race hate crime.” 

“Through events like these, we will hopefully see lawmakers have more sensitivity towards issues that have an effect on the Sikh community, and indeed other religions and communities in the UK. We’re extremely grateful to Seema Malhotra for her support in organising this event in Parliament.” 

Seema Malhotra MP said: “The attack outside Parliament last year shows the need for Turban Awareness Day to break down barriers and encourage cohesion and dialogue. This event took place as part of Sikh Awareness and History Month, which seeks to raise awareness and understanding of the Sikh faith, history and community.” 

“I am grateful to the team at the Sikh Channel for their skills and expertise tying turbans on so many MPs from across Parliament. I also thank my colleagues for joining us and supporting Sikh Awareness Month.”