May 30, 2025 at 2:00 PM
My name is Ekamjot Khangura and I am of South Asian descent, originally from Ludhiana, a large industrial city in the northern Indian state of Punjab.
I arrived in Canada in 2018. We initially settled in British Columbia; however my life took an unforeseen turn and I was asked to move to Ontario to support my aunt, who was expecting a child. My uncle was serving with National Security and was away often, so I took on the role to help support my aunt and help take care of my younger cousins.
This adjustment was difficult. I excelled at college; however, I faced racism and discrimination at my workplace. Some of this dissension was silent, while more often than not, colleagues made it clear and were explicit with their words.
As a South Asian, I found myself working twice as hard for half the recognition. At times, I was overlooked, spoken over and unfairly judged. Like many immigrant families, we came to Canada seeking a better life, economic stability and hope that our hard work would truly lead to a better life. It has not been an easy transition, but it has been purposeful.
Now with the last family member to join us here in Canada we share our stories, challenges and experiences, all united with a shared dream; to build a life in Canada that we now call home.
ANCESTRAL ROOTS AND FACTS
Historical facts about my ancestral background
The name Khangura clan of the Jat Sikh community comes from the historical Princely State of Punjab, India. The name Khangura roots come from Persian, meaning “follower of the Guru”. Our history is rich with stories of resilience-of forefathers defending our land with honor, guided by their devotion to justice and spirituality.
The Sikh presence in Canada dates back to 1897, when a group of Sikh soldiers passed through Canada after attending Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in London. Permanent Sikh immigration began in the early 1900s. The first settlers arrived in British Columbia around 1904. They worked in the lumber mills, on railway construction and in agricultural. By 1908, over 5,000 South Asians - mostly Sikhs - lived in British Colombia.
Theses historical ties remind us that our roots in Canada run deep. For many, this may be the first time learning about this important part of Canadian history. That is why cultural sharing is important. Having a platform like BIWOC (Black, Indigenous Workers of Colour) allows us to connect, share and learn from one another.
Together, we build a richer, more inclusive community- one story at a time.
– Ekam
25-05-30 Asian Hertage Month Story EN