Please take action in your community.
Wahe Guru Ji Ka Khalsa,
Wahe Guru Ji Ki Fateh.
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As you may have heard in the news today, Sukhpal Singh Sodhi, brother of Balbir Singh Sodhi the first hate crime fatality post-September 11th, was tragically killed in his taxi in San Francisco on Sunday, August 4th. Our hearts and prayers go out to the Sodhi family at this time, who have lost two brothers in the last eleven months to random and senseless acts of violence. This passing serves as a sobering and sorrowful wake-up call for the Sikh community. With Sukhpal Singhs death coming so close to the anniversary of the September 11th attacks, we are reminded how important it is to be visible once again in our communities ? to reach out, serve, educate and build relationships with our neighbors, police agencies, city and state leadership.
As you know, the Sikh turban stands for Sarbatt Daa Bhalaa, something noble, an attitude that embraces humanity in the spirit of One God. Our turban symbolizes that we see past issues of culture, race, creed, gender and language, and equally embrace all people of the world as our brothers and sisters. It is this spirit of unity that can uplift those who feel saddened and concerned as September 11th draws closer. The best way we know to share our spirit of Sarbhatt Daa Bhalaa is through selfless service.
Today, we call upon the Sikh community, law enforcement, our government leadership, the media and all fellow Americans to become more proactive - reaching out, educating, and creating a deeper level of understanding, respect and support. Please be present, aware and active in your communities, especially as the anniversary of September 11th comes closer and the potential for hate crimes increases. It is in the spirit of unity that we know hate cannot exist.
Some things you can do in your communities:
1. Talk to your children. Take the time today with your children to remind them of the noble spirit and values of being an American and a Sikh. Give them a sense of comfort in their identity and heritage that can help them in the face of any insecurities.
2. Reach out to your neighbors. Something as simple as re-introducing yourself, smiling, and spending a few minutes chatting with them to build better relationships.
3. Become involved in community events around September 11th. Are there large activities being organized in every city? Call and volunteer to participate and encourage others in the Sikh community to participate in these events. In the coming weeks, please check SikhNet for a calendar of local community September 11th events. Please let us know of anything happening in your area.
4. Be aware. Safety is an important issue at this time. Identify your local law enforcement Sikh community liaison, set up a meeting to explain traffic patterns, habits, values and vulnerabilities of the community.
5. Educate others and encourage others to reach out. Re-connect with teachers and schools, and find ways to help educate others about Sikh values and traditions.
As Sikhs, we are an integral part of the communities in which we live whether were Americans, Canadians, British or Indian. We call upon all in the spirit of Sarbatt Daa Bhalaa - an attitude that embraces humanity in the spirit of One God- to reach out and prevent further tragedies.
Jointly Signed:
SikhNet
www.sikhnet.com
Sikh Communications
Sikh Mediawatch and Resource Task Force
www.sikhmediawatch.org
 Main: Balbir Sodhi Singhs Brother Killed | Rupinder Singh Bedi | 8/9/2002 |
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