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Surrey Mayor honors Indo-Canadian's book exposing racism
The city issued an official proclamation recognizing 'Underdog' as over 350 attendees joined the launch celebrating Bhullar’s landmark anti-racism battle.
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Anushka Pathak - Sat, 11, Oct 2025
- 13:30 EDT
- 28
Hakam Singh Bhullar receiving the Certificate of Recognition from Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke / Handout/ Angles Communications
The city of Surrey formally recognized Indo-Canadian veterinarian Hakam Singh Bhullar’s book, which documents his 13-year legal struggle against systemic discrimination in Canada’s veterinary profession.
The book titled 'Underdog: A Veterinarian’s Fight Against Racism and Injustice' recounts Bhullar’s prolonged legal fight that led to a landmark human rights ruling recognizing systemic racism in the British Columbia Veterinary Medical Association and resulting in a public apology.
Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke and the city council issued a proclamation at the city hall, commending Bhullar’s work for its role in advancing dialogue on equity and inclusion.
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Bhullar expressed gratitude for the city’s recognition, stating, “Your acknowledgment not only honors my work but also brings vital attention to the ongoing fight against racism and injustice. 'Underdog' isn’t just my story—it’s a mirror for anyone who’s ever faced inequity.”
Hakam Singh Bhullar’s book ‘Underdog: A Veterinarian’s Fight Against Racism and Injustice' / Courtesy: Handout/ Angles CommunicationsThe recognition followed a high-profile book launch in the Vancouver area attended by more than 350 guests, including political leaders, community figures, and dignitaries.
Special guests, dignitaries, and community leaders gathered in Surrey to celebrate the launch of Underdog: A Veterinarian’s Fight Against Racism and Injustice / Handout/Angles Communications
Attendees included Liberal MP Sukh Dhaliwal, ministers Jagroop Brar and Harry Bains, B.C. legislative assembly speaker Raj Chouhan, former MLA Jinny Sims, MP Randeep Sarai, MLA Steve Kooner, and minister of post-secondary education and future skills Jessie Sunner.
Former diplomat Bhupinder Lidder and parliamentary secretary Sunita Dhir also joined the gathering, which highlighted the significance of Bhullar’s case and its impact on professional accountability.
The memoir, which also explores his personal and professional journey, has inspired the development of a forthcoming documentary adaptation.
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