Sikh Parade in Livingston, California Draws 2,500 People

March 25, 2002

Source: The Modesto Bee

http://www.modbee.com/local/story/1942117p-2086286c.html

On March 25, 2002, The Modesto Bee featured the article "2,500 gather for Sikh parade." The article reported that "People of all ages marched in the parade, which drew some 2,500 people from as far away as Marysville and Bakersfield. The event marked Holla Mohalla, which Sikh people celebrate on the day after Holi, the festival of color. Holi is associated with spring, hope, new crops and youth. Youths were out in force at the parade, which started at the Sikh temple on Peach Avenue and wound through the town until it reached another Sikh temple on B Street. ... People came out of their homes and stood in their yards to watch." The article continued, "Sikh people in other cities, such as Stockton and Yuba City, hold similar gatherings. The events help people who are not part of the faith learn about Sikh beliefs, said Jay Gill, who came from Chowchilla for the Livingston parade. 'We let others know that we're a part of the community,' he said. Another reason for the gathering, organizers said, is to help the next generation learn about religious traditions."