[An inspiring revelation received from Harkirat Anand and her colleague, members of the Junior Sikh Coalition ~ Ed]
For a long time, I didn't have much confidence in my identity as a Sikh American. I struggled with finding a purpose in my kesh and kara since they often led to negative remarks from others.
That all changed when I went to Camp Chardi Kala (CCK). After attending CCK for the first time, not only did I gain thorough insight into Sikhi but I also gained a new community filled with support and inspiration. When I attended CCK last year as a Junior Sikh Coalition member, that community grew significantly stronger.
Each year that I have attended CCK, I've been able to unlock more and more of the beauty that is Sikhi. Above all else, however, the people I have met at CCK – the counselors, the volunteers and my peers – created an environment that I continue to cherish. Everyone contributes to an atmosphere of fun, love and a desire to learn. I found myself bringing these ideals into everyday life, where I started to not only understand why I practice Sikhi, but why I love practicing Sikhi.
Help us learn more about Sikhi at CCK.
The chardi kala you embody from attending CCK stays with you for life and I am incredibly thankful for that. I hope that we can count on our sangat to ensure Junior Sikh Coalition youth do not miss this life-changing experience due to financial constraints.
And if not from me, hear it from Ramanjot Kaur, my Junior Sikh Coalition peer.
The cost to provide one scholarship for transportation and an entire week at camp, including food, lodging and classes, is $350. Please donate to help our group attend CCK and ensure that we have a chance at another fulfilling experience this year.
In Chardi Kala,
Harkirat Anand
Junior Sikh Coalition Member