Source: Sikh Network

http://www.sikhnet.com/s/SikhsWhiteHouse

On August 18, 2004 Sikh Network reported that, "on Wednesday, August 18, 2004, at the invitation of the Bush Administration, ninety (90) Sikhs from around the United States are gathering at the White House to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh Scriptures. High officials of the White House will greet Sikhs on this occasion with special comments and dialogue. The program, which begins at 3:15 pm, will start with a Sikh prayer and hymn singing. Wednesday, September 1st marks the 400th anniversary of the compilation of the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh Scriptures and its installation at the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), located in Amritsar, India, in 1604. The scriptures are the guiding principle for the Sikh community since that time. Dr. Rajwant Singh, National Chairman of the Sikh Council on Religion and Education, said ' The Sikh community in the United States is extremely pleased with President Bush’s invitation on this auspicious occasion. Sikhs have been in America over 100 years and this definitely sends a strong signal that this White House recognizes the Sikh presence in the U. S.' This is the first time the White House is marking a Sikh event."