A temporary exemption has been granted to Sikh motorcyclists in Saskatchewan, allowing them to wear turbans while riding in two upcoming Nagar Kirtan parades. The exemption is a significant victory for the Sikh community, which has been advocating for the right to wear turbans while riding motorcycles for religious reasons.
The exemption will be in effect for two weeks, from May 5 to May 19, and will apply to Sikhs traveling to the parades in Regina on May 11 and Saskatoon on May 19. The exemption is only valid for those traveling to and from the parade venues.
Preet Kamal Gill, a volunteer with the Sikh Society of Saskatchewan, said the exemption has been a long time coming. He said that when he moved to Canada 15 years ago, he didn’t have any peers or role models that wore a turban. As a result, he ended up giving up his turban and cutting his hair.
Gill said that a turban isn’t just a piece of clothing, it ties Sikhs to their religious identity. He said that the helmet exemption allows Sikhs to follow their passion, in this case riding motorcycles, while being able to fully embrace their religious identity.
The exemptions must be approved by the minister responsible for Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) and is limited to members of the Sikh religion. Dustin Duncan, the minister responsible for SGI, said that the government is happy to grant the exemption and allow Sikhs to take part in the parade.
The exemption does not apply to riders who are learners or in their home province’s graduated driver licensing program.
Gill said the Sikh motorcycle community in Saskatchewan is quite large. He said that the community wants to be able to show the world their identity, their principals, and their core values. He said that the exemption is about equality and dignity for all.
