Milwaukee, WI — At the recent Republican National Convention held at the Fiserv Forum, Harmeet Kaur Dhillon, a prominent figure in the party and a civil rights lawyer, delivered a heartfelt Sikh prayer known as ‘ardas’ in a poignant moment that followed a recent attack on former President Donald Trump. The prayer not only marked a significant cultural moment but also illustrated the diverse religious practices represented within the party.
Dhillon’s invocation came shortly after unsettling events surrounding Trump, bringing an added layer of solemnity and reflection to the gathering. Addressing attendees, she shared insights into the profound impact of the frightening incident on the party’s morale and underscored the collective turn towards prayer for solace and guidance.
“I had the honor of sharing a prayer from my tradition, which is embraced by millions around the globe,” Dhillon stated. During her speech, she articulated the integral values of humility, truth, and justice that the Sikh prayer emphasizes, highlighting its relevance to the values that she believed the Republican Party stands for, especially in such turbulent times.
She articulated the prayer’s core plea for divine protection and guidance, reflecting the community’s desires for a peaceful electoral process and wise leadership. “Dear Waheguru, our one true God, we look to you for blessings upon America, a land of freedom, where we can worship as per our faiths,” she conveyed during her evocative address, stressing the importance of wisdom and integrity among leaders and voters alike.
In her prayer, Dhillon specifically thanked God for safeguarding Trump during the assassination attempt, which clearly left a deep imprint on the party’s supporters and leaders. She praised the former president’s undeterred spirit, which she termed as both tireless and uplifting, resonating with the supportive crowd.
Beyond her role at the convention, Dhillon has also made significant strides in political advocacy as the vice chairwoman of the California Republican Party and as a co-chair of the Women for Trump organization. Her active participation in these groups reflects her commitment to promoting political engagement among various community groups, particularly emphasizing the inclusion of women in political discourse.
Her presence and prayer at the convention served not only as a symbol of her personal faith but also as a demonstration of the Republican Party’s acceptance and incorporation of diverse cultural and religious identities. Dhillon’s leadership and her unique role in this high-profile event underline an ongoing effort within the party to broaden its appeal and foster a more inclusive environment.
This move at the Republican National Convention is indicative of a broader dynamic within American politics where leaders from varied backgrounds are using their heritage to influence and enrich the national political dialogue, reminding citizens of the pluralistic foundation upon which the country is built.