Ohlone College recently hosted a captivating event in collaboration with the Lytton Center for History and the Public Good and the Ohlone Sikh Student Association. Titled “Homecoming: An Evening of Storytelling and Reflection Featuring Punjabi Sikh Voices,” the event took place on February 21, 2025, at the Ohlone College Newark Center. Attendees from various backgrounds, including community members, students, and artists, gathered for a night filled with cultural exchange, personal narratives, and a deep dive into Punjabi Sikh culture.
The highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by the renowned author Harman Kaur, celebrated for her literary works such as Phulkari and Call Me Home. Kaur’s speech sparked engaging discussions on themes of identity, belonging, and heritage, resonating with the diverse audience present. Additionally, the event showcased performances and storytelling by Punjabi artists and students, shedding light on the rich tapestry of Punjabi Sikh culture in the Bay Area.
Reflecting on the impactful evening, Ohlone College’s President/Superintendent, Charles Sasaki, expressed his admiration for the energy and emotion that filled the room. “The stories shared tonight were not only moving but also thought-provoking,” Sasaki remarked. He emphasized the profound impact of storytelling in fostering connections and understanding across cultures, underscoring the significance of events like these in our communities.
The success of the event was made possible through the generous support of the Ohlone College Foundation and the Ohlone College Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Raj Rai, the Interim Program Manager of Career Services and Industry Relations at Ohlone College, along with Harshdeep Singh Nanda, the Program Supervisor of the Student Pathways Program, highlighted the importance of providing spaces for the Punjabi Sikh community to unite and celebrate their shared heritage.
Rai noted, “Events like these are truly unique and draw our community together in a profound way. We had attendees coming from as far as Canada and across the U.S. to participate in this evening.” He emphasized the deep-rooted presence of the Punjabi Sikh community in the Bay Area, highlighting the scarcity of opportunities for meaningful gatherings like the one hosted by Ohlone College.
In a world where diversity and inclusion are increasingly recognized as essential pillars of a harmonious society, events that celebrate cultural heritage and foster cross-cultural understanding play a vital role in bridging divides and nurturing unity. The “Homecoming” event at Ohlone College stands as a shining example of how storytelling and cultural exchange can serve as powerful tools in building connections and strengthening communities.
As we reflect on the profound impact of the evening, it becomes evident that the narratives shared by Punjabi Sikh voices have the transformative power to transcend borders, unite hearts, and enrich our collective human experience. Through events like these, we are reminded of the beauty and strength that lies in our shared stories and the connections that bind us together as a global community.
