Georgia is First U.S. State to Legislatively Recognize Punjabi Language
Georgia's action may spur other U.S. states to do the same, further promoting the status of Punjabi at the national level.
Georgia is First U.S. State to Legislatively Recognize Punjabi Language latest news: In a historic and bipartisan vote, the Georgia State Assembly has approved House Resolution 430, legislatively recognizing the Punjabi language and celebrating the important contributions of the Sikh and Punjabi community in the state.
The resolution, passed on March 22, 2025, is the first time that a state legislature has given legislative recognition to Punjabi anywhere in the United States.
The acknowledgement celebrates the linguistic and cultural significance of Punjabi, which has a following of over 600 million across the world. Surinder Singh Lalli, head of the Sikh American Society of Georgia and an acclaimed businessman, deemed the resolution to be a moment of pride and history for Sikh and Punjabi communities not only in Georgia but worldwide. "It is a testament to the increasing power and contributions of our community, and we are very thankful to the legislators and all members of the community who made this happen," Lalli said in a statement.
Punjabi, the ninth most widely spoken language in the world, has its origins in the Punjab region of South Asia, dividing parts of contemporary India and Pakistan. It is written in two major scripts: Gurmukhi in India and Shahmukhi in Pakistan, demonstrating its rich scriptural heritage.
Outside of South Asia, Punjabi has thrived in diaspora populations in nations like Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States, where it has been sustained through music, literature, and religious life, most notably within Sikhism.
Georgia's resolution reflects the state's commitment to celebrating diversity and conserving cultural heritage. Supporters of the recognition believe it will pave the way for Punjabi language courses in schools and universities throughout the state, creating a deeper understanding of South Asian heritage for generations to come.
Moreover, this milestone ruling has sweeping consequences for education, cultural heritage, and community empowerment. As Punjabi remains a thriving global language, the ruling secures its status in Georgia's socio-economic fabric, where the Sikh and Punjabi communities have played an important part.
Georgia's action may spur other U.S. states to do the same, further promoting the status of Punjabi at the national level. For the time being, the Punjabi-speaking citizens of Georgia and their supporters rejoice at this triumph, a testament to the long-lasting legacy and vibrant presence of their culture in the American tapestry.
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