Although more than half a million Sikhs live in the US, a majority of Americans are unaware of what Sikhism is and some admit wariness when seeing their Sikh neighbours, according to a new study.

Conducted by Washington-based Hart Research Associates, the study released in January shows that there is enormous potential to increase awareness and enhance positive sentiments toward Sikhism within the broader American public.

In particular, greater understanding can be achieved by sharing information that emphasizes Sikhism’s belief in equality regardless of gender, race, or religion, highlighting the strong parallels between Sikh values and American values, and explaining the significance of the turban, it said.

The report, “Sikhism in the US: What Americans know and need to know,” was commissioned by the National Sikh Campaign (NSC) to analyse Americans’ current view of Sikhism and identify key messages to increase their acceptance of Sikh Americans.