SR0464 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0464 LRB104 15888 ECR 29114 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Hinduism, one of the world's oldest living religions, has over one billion followers worldwide, including a growing and vibrant community of Hindus in Illinois who contribute to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of the State; and

WHEREAS, Hinduism has greatly influenced global cultures, science, architecture, literature, medicine, philosophy, and art, advancing the shared knowledge and growth of humanity; and

WHEREAS, Hindu heritage celebrates values, including nonviolence and truth, referred to as Ahimsa and Satya respectively, in addition to tolerance, mutual respect, and pluralism, and these values align with the principles of justice and equality, which are foundational to the State of Illinois and the United States; and

WHEREAS, Hinduism, known by its followers as Sanatarma Dharma, meaning "the Eternal Truth" or "the Eternal Way", is not merely a religion but a way of life, emphasizing universal values, including truth, or satya, nonviolence, or ahimsa, compassion, or karuna, selfless service, or seva, and respect for all forms of life; and

WHEREAS, Sanatarma Dharma teaches the interconnectedness of all beings, the pursuit of knowledge and self-realization, and the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning "the world is one family"; and

WHEREAS, Numerous Hindu temples, spiritual centers, cultural organizations, and festivals are based in Illinois, further enriching the cultural landscape of the State and fostering greater understanding and respect among communities; and

WHEREAS, Hindu Americans have made significant contributions in the fields of technology, business, medicine, education, science, art, and public service, enhancing the prosperity and success of the State of Illinois; and

WHEREAS, For followers of Hinduism, October is an important month that corresponds with the celebration of a number of festivals, including Navaratri, Durga Puja, and Diwali, marking it as a time of spiritual significance, cultural expression, and community togetherness across the State of Illinois and the United States; and

WHEREAS, Observing Hindu Heritage Month honors the contributions of the Hindu community, promotes interfaith dialogue, and encourages the celebration of Illinois' cultural diversity; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare October 2025 as Hindu Heritage Month in the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we encourage the residents of Illinois to recognize and celebrate the vibrant contributions of the Hindu community to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of the State.