The Consulate General of India (CGI) in Seattle organized the inaugural Baisakhi celebration at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia on April 14, 2025.
The historic event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson, Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck, and Secretary of State Steve Hobbs. This marked the first time the festival of Baisakhi was officially celebrated at the State Capitol, noted a statement from the CGI Seattle.
Also in attendance were members of the Washington State Legislature and prominent leaders of the Sikh community from across the state.
In his remarks, Governor Ferguson acknowledged the significant contributions of the Indian American Sikh community to Washington State and lauded the Consulate’s efforts in bringing the celebration to the State Capitol.
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To commemorate the occasion, Governor Ferguson also issued a special proclamation recognizing Baisakhi.
Similar proclamations were also made by King County, which encompasses 39 cities in the Greater Seattle area, Snohomish County, and the cities of Kent, Auburn, and Marysville, all declaring April 14 as Baisakhi Day in their respective jurisdictions.
The statement noted that Indian American Sikh community in Washington is known for its active involvement in public service and entrepreneurship, particularly in supporting small and medium-sized businesses, thereby enriching the state’s economic and cultural landscape.
Several distinguished members of the Sikh community were honored during the event for their outstanding contributions to the Greater Seattle region.
