As an area populated with people from all over the world, South Florida houses a variety of cultures. To promote the different backgrounds of the community, the Sikh Youth Association organized their second annual “A Race for Unity in Diversity” 5k run and walk. With appearances by Southwest Ranches Mayor Doug McKay and ABC’s “The Goldbergs” Louis Gregory, known for his on-screen character of Uncle Louie, the 5k encouraged the spread of cultures Saturday, Feb. 29 at the Sikh Society of Florida temple.
Organized at Heritage by juniors Pavitpaul Makkar and Raunika Tandon, the 5k began at 5:30 a.m. for preparation. Volunteers from both the community and Heritage helped set up vendor booths and the food before the race began. Junior Sophia Hai volunteered at both this event and the one last year.
“Being there a second time, I’ve really seen the growth of the event and how it has expanded,” Hai said. “We had so many more sponsors this year and another hundred runners. It’s a great experience.”
Paying homage to the unity the race promotes, a group of religious leaders formed a Circle of Prayer. Holding hands, 10 religious leaders from eight local religious institutions gathered in a circle and had a moment of silence.
“The purpose of the event is to invite people from various walks of life, cultures and religions to foster a sense of community and understanding among them,” Makkar said. “The race strives to promote awareness and acceptance in our neighborhoods and encourage youth activism and community service in order to build a healthier society.”
Before the race began, senior Kierann Harmon sang the National Anthem. “It’s awesome being here,” Harmon said after her performance. “It’s really cool what they’re doing, and I’m excited that I was able to sing at it.”
During the race, participants both ran and walked. Mayor McKay joined those who walked, wearing the number one runner tag. “I look forward to meeting and talking to new people, socializing with the community and having a good time,” Mayor McKay said. “My favorite part is just the organization. It’s putting all the people together. It’s a great event. I’m happy to have it in the town of Southwest Ranches. Hopefully, we’ll be doing it again next year.”
Throughout the event, Gregory (Uncle Louie) livened the atmosphere and finished the 5k by presenting the awards and announcing winners of the raffle. “I’m a huge community advocate. I live here in Southwest Ranches and love doing whatever I can for the community,” Gregory said. “I always say that we’re all strangers until we become neighbors, and being a part of these events brings me closer to my neighbors and lets me get actively involved in the community.”
Not only did this event promote diversity, but it also raised money for the Town of Southwest Ranches College Scholarship Fund, which provides financial aid to incoming college students.
Through this event, the Sikh Society of Florida brought together people from all different backgrounds to encourage a common goal: unity. With runners and walkers of all ages completing the track in culturally diverse groups, participants truly brought to life the message of the 5k.
