Across the world, we are witnessing growing uncertainty. Economic pressures, wars, migration and rapid social change have created genuine concerns in many communities. At the same time, groups promoting racial superiority, exclusion and hostility towards migrants and minorities are becoming increasingly visible. Australia is not immune to these tensions.
As a migrant, a Sikh and someone who has spent many years serving the community, I believe people have every right to discuss immigration, housing, security and national identity. But we must never cross an important line. A debate about immigration policy must never become hatred towards an immigrant. Concern about extremism must never become suspicion of an entire faith. Economic hardship must never become an excuse to blame a neighbour because of their colour, accent, religion or country of birth.
For me, Sikh philosophy provides a powerful way forward. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught us the importance of remaining in dialogue while we share this world to speak, but also to listen. When society becomes divided, our instinct can be to shout louder. Sikh teachings encourage us instead to listen, recognise the humanity in one another, and respond with truth, compassion and humility.
Our tradition also teachers us to stand against injustice and oppression. Freedom is meaningful only when we defend it not just for ourselves, but for others. A Sikh cannot ask society to respect our turban, articles of faith and identity while remaining silent when another community is targeted for looking, praying or living differently.
Migrants, too, have responsibilities: to respect our laws, contribute to society, respect others’ freedoms, and participate in our shared community.
Through Sikh Volunteers Australia, I have seen these principles in practice. During bushfires, floods, the pandemic and our regular food relief, we do not ask someone’s religion, nationality or political beliefs before offering a meal. We simply see another human being. Australians from many different backgrounds have stood beside us doing exactly the same. That experience gives me hope. Sometimes the person we disagree with most is the person we most need to sit down with.
Our children will inherit the Australia we create through our words and actions today. Australia has room for different cultures, religions, opinions and respectful disagreement. There should never be room for hatred. If we continue to speak with one another, listen to one another and stand together when anyone faces injustice, I remain deeply hopeful about Australia’s future.
Jaswinder Singh
CEO & Co-Founder
Sikh Volunteers Australia
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