Migrant Sikh pioneers commemorated at WA memorial

The Sikh Association of Western Australia has been recognised for its efforts to bring to light the history of the early Sikh migrants, with a plaque at the South-west Migrants Memorial.

Sikh pioneers

Members of the Sikh community at the South-West Migrants Memorial. Source: Supplied

A commemorative plaque remembering 12 Sikhs of the South-West region of Western Australia has been installed at the South West Migrants Memorial at Bunbury, Western Australia, on Saturday, to remember their contribution and sacrifice.  

About 70 members of the Sikh community were present among over 1,500 people who attended the opening of the South-West Migrants Memorial where the history of Sikhs in Australia was shared.
Plaque
Source: Supplied
Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan acknowledged and appreciated the role of Sikhs in the development of the region.

Chairman Lui Tuia and Project Manager Charlie Martella also applauded the role of the Sikhs on learning about their contribution to the country.
Migrant memorial
Members of the community at the opening of the South-west Migrant Memorial. Source: Supplied
Many migrants arrived in the South West of Western Australia in the early to mid 20th century. These people were exposed to extreme hardships exacerbated by two world wars and economic depression. They came to this country without citizenship, not knowing the language or customs, and with little or no money or formal education.

The South West Migrant Memorial will publicly recognise and honour them and the many sacrifices they made so their children and grandchildren could have a better life. It is designed to symbolise their many achievements and acknowledge the contribution they made to the ongoing prosperity of the south-west region.



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2 min read
Published 27 November 2018 12:55pm
By SBS Punjabi
Source: SBS

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