With the 2024-2025 school year back in full swing, PDS students were greeted with dozens of clubs and extracurriculars at the annual club fair on September 19. The various stands at the club fair housed both classic PDS clubs that have been an integral part of the school community for years as well as new organizations proposed by students! Among these new clubs is Sikh Club. Founded and led by Junior Ishnoor Kaur, Sikh Club is an exciting new edition to PDS’ student organization scene that will engage the upper school community in the traditions, culture, and practices of Sikhism.
One of the primary reasons Kaur created Sikh Club was because she “felt it was important for those who identify or want to learn more about Sikhism to have a space where [they] can talk about the religion.” While PDS houses a diverse range of clubs and affinity groups, Kaur noted that there was a need for Sikh-identifying students to “feel more connected and seen” and get to know others who have the same Sikh values.
Moreover, Kaur emphasizes that the Sikh Club is welcome to all students, especially for those interested in learning about Sikhism. Making it a club instead of an affinity group, Kaur is excited to “teach and share [her] religion with more people.” To further spread education about the religion, the Sikh Club is currently working with the PDS History Department to integrate Sikhism into the World Religions curriculum. As Kaur explained, “we advocate for a more extensive and detailed understanding of Sikhism in the 9th-grade history classes.”
Along with enriching the PDS World Religions curriculum, the Sikh Club also has plans to host a “gathering in celebration of Vaisakhi, the holiday that marks the beginning of Sikhism.” By involving the entire upper school at this holiday gathering, Kaur hopes to continue sharing a part of her identity with other students.
Sikh Club’s first meeting is Monday, October 21 on Day 5. Join them in room 201 to discuss experiences within the religion and plan ways to increase awareness of the sikh religion inside the PDS community!
