On 2-8th November, the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh official partner of UK Parliament Week, hosted Parliament Week activities at 26 shakhas across the country. From the youngest 5 year old to the oldest 86 year old, there was something for everyone to participate in. It was an opportunity especially for the youth to ‘have their say’ on the issues that matter to them the most. It aimed at engaging the entire population, including members of the Hindu, Jain, Buddhist and Sikh community.
A planned format included showcasing activities of the HSS including Khel (Sport) and Surya Namaskar (Yoga) to the invited guests and debates on topics ranging from voting age, Diwali a public, global warming and Brexit.
A number of shakhas held Quizzes, and presented talks on UK parliament. Invited guests from across the political spectrum included local Mayor, local councilors, Ex-Members of Parliament and members of a local Hindu Temple Trust at Bromley.
A letter of support for our UK Parliament week activity included one from Lord Jitesh Gadhia in which he stated that it is vital for all Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists to forge a deeper understanding of our democratic process in the UK. HSS (U.K.) spokesperson said,
“We are excited that so many shakhas across the country got involved in UK Parliament Week 2019 and demonstrated how they can play a vital role in their democracy. From Sale in the North West to Bromley in the South, Southend in the East to Cheltenham in the West, over 26 branches participated with a total of more than 720 participants.”
In 2018, UK Parliament Week reached almost 1 million people, with more than 8,100 activities. This year’s UK Parliament Week festival is expected to be the largest ever.
