The shooting at Oak Creek Gurdwara did not target the Sikh community alone but all of humanity. We request your help in bridging the gap created between different religions by misunderstandings and ignorance as you have the power to reach the minds of hundreds of thousands of individuals. As local Sikh Americans, we feel obliged to inform other local residents about our faith.

The acts at the Oak Creek Gurdwara were acts of hatred and sectarianism. However, an act of hatred gave rise to an act of love and selflessness. This is the beauty of the United States of America. In middle of chaos, the police officers prevented the propagation of immense hate, anger, and frustration that would have resulted from the death of scores of innocent Sikhs.

For Sikhs, what followed was a historic day that cannot be comprehended in words: both in sadness and joy. For the first time, the Sikh community had been attacked in such a senseless and ruthless manner in recent times. However, the joy from constant coverage and education by the television media has had a calming and reassuring effect on Sikhs.

A distinct religion that is based on equality, Sikhism values human life as a way to connect with Supreme Creator through practices while upholding strict moral standards. A Sikh is a symbol of fight against injustice and oppression of any sort, as our history proves. And turban is a symbol of pride and distinct identity of a Sikh. We have hit many roadblocks before, but such incidents will not weaken our faith.

Incidents like Aurora and Oak Creek will strengthen the spirit of brotherhood and humanity. The outpouring support of communities across the nation after these two tragic incidents has strengthened the bonds of nation and proven that regardless of our race, religion and color, we are all humans and Americans.

We are sincerely thankful and indebted to everybody for showing their support and solidarity.

With warmest regards,

Sikh Cultural Association,
University of California, Davis.
[email protected]

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