Toronto: A new report has raised serious concerns about growing discrimination against Sikhs in Canada, revealing that nearly 65% of Sikh Canadians have experienced hate or bias.
The findings come from a 78-page study titled ‘Understanding and Addressing Anti-Sikh Hate in Canada’ released by the World Sikh Organization. The report highlights a sharp rise in racial discrimination and prejudice against the Sikh community.
Survey findings raise alarm
The study, conducted between January and March 2025 among over 1,600 Sikh Canadians, found that 80% of respondents believe hate and discrimination against Sikhs has increased significantly over the past five years. Around 65% reported facing verbal harassment in public spaces.
Key causes identified
The report points to racism, xenophobia, and misinformation linked to India as major drivers behind anti-Sikh sentiment. It defines anti-Sikh hate as bias stemming from a person’s Sikh identity, appearance, beliefs, or advocacy.
The research was supported by the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, adding further weight to its findings.
Panel discussion in Surrey
A panel discussion on the report is scheduled in Surrey, where speakers including Baltej Singh Dhillon, Sonia Kaur Aujla Bhullar and Gurbaaz Singh Multani will share their views.
The organization said the report is one of the first comprehensive efforts to document the lived experiences of Sikhs across Canada, combining survey data with insights from community town halls.
