In the rich history of America’s immigrant history, the contributions and experiences of South Asians, particularly Punjabi women, are often overlooked. As we celebrate the growing presence of South Asians globally, with over 44 lakh of Indian origin residing in the United States, it’s crucial to revisit and honor the stories of those who paved the way, despite being largely forgotten in historical accounts.
The earliest South Asian immigrants to America were predominantly Punjabi Sikh laborers and farmers who arrived on the West Coast in the early 20th century. These pioneering souls, driven by the economic hardships imposed by British colonial policies in Punjab, sought better opportunities across the oceans. The Sikh men, initially serving as soldiers and police under the British Empire, found their way to Vancouver and San Francisco, setting the foundation for what would become a vibrant, though challenging, community.
By the eve of World War I, Punjabi Sikhs comprised nearly 90% of the 6,500 South Asians in the US. However, the struggles they faced were immense, with racial antipathy and restrictive laws curbing their rights and freedoms. It wasn’t until 1946 that immigration policies eased enough to allow some families to reunite.
One such pioneering woman was Rattan Kaur, who arrived in the US in 1910, joining her husband, Bakhshish Singh Dhillon. Dhillon was deeply involved in the Ghadar movement—a revolutionary effort aimed at ending British rule in India. Their daughters, Karm and Kartar, are believed to be among the first Sikh girls born on American soil. Kartar’s memoir, A Parrot’s Beak, offers a poignant glimpse into the challenges her mother faced—struggling with isolation and longing for her homeland, yet embodying resilience and hope.
The Stockton gurdwara, established in 1912, became a cornerstone of the South Asian American experience, a gathering place for religious celebrations and political activism. Rattan Kaur and her family were deeply involved in the Ghadar cause, and her legacy of resistance and commitment to justice profoundly influenced her daughter, Kartar, who carried these values into her own activism.
Post-World War II saw a new wave of Punjabi women arriving in America, particularly in the Central Valley of California. These women, many of whom had lived through India’s Partition and had little formal education, faced a disorienting new world. The journey from Delhi to San Francisco was daunting, and the cultural transition was equally challenging. Yet, their perseverance contributed significantly to the community’s growth, especially in the field of farming. Women like Harbhajan Kaur Takher played crucial roles in managing farm operations, demonstrating exceptional strength and adaptability.
In Yuba City, a burgeoning Punjabi community found new opportunities in peach farming. Here, Punjabi women formed close-knit friendships and supported each other through the pressures of adapting to American rural life. Nand Kaur, a matriarch of the community, played a key role in guiding newcomers on how to navigate cultural tensions and integrate into their new environment.
The 1970s marked a revival of Punjabi cultural and religious practices in Yuba City, thanks in part to the Immigration Act of 1965, which emphasized family reunification. The establishment of Yuba City’s first gurdwara in 1970 saw Punjabi women taking on active roles in its operation, from preparing food for weddings to participating in religious ceremonies. The annual nagar kirtan, a significant Sikh festival held on the first Sunday of November, became a vibrant showcase of Punjabi identity, with women proudly representing their community.
These women’s stories, passed down through generations, highlight their pivotal role in shaping the South Asian American experience. Nand Kaur’s daughter, Dr. Jane Singh, documented these narratives, revealing the deep connections between past struggles and present triumphs. Songs and stories of the Ghadar movement, cherished by the early immigrants, served as a bridge to their homeland and a source of solace and inspiration.
As we reflect on the contributions of Punjabi women in America, it is vital to acknowledge their resilience, courage, and the rich cultural heritage they have brought to this country. Their stories are not just a part of history but a testament to the enduring spirit of a community that has faced countless challenges yet continues to thrive and enrich the American mosaic.
