Earlier today, a shooting
occurred at the Sikh Gurdwara (Sikh congregational place of worship) in
Oak Creek, WI, in what law enforcement has described as an act of domestic
terrorism. The unprecedented attack has left seven people dead and
injured over a handful of innocent civilians. Our thoughts and prayers are
with the victims, their families, and the Oak Creek community following
this tragic attack at the Gurdwara.
“The Sikh American
community, like all Americans, is shocked after this attack,” said SALDEF
Managing Director Kavneet Singh. “We mourn the loss of those who were
killed today and pray for the swift recovery of the those injured,
including the veteran police officer who put himself in harm's way to
protect his community.”
SALDEF thanks our friends
and neighbors from across the country for the outpouring of support and
condolences as we come together to mourn and heal as one unified national
community standing together against violence and bigotry.
“This attack is
particularly troubling due to its occurrence at a place of worship,” said
Mr. Singh. “All houses of worship, like this gurdwara, are places of
peace. Attacks at any of the nation’s houses of worship must be condemned
by all Americans. This type of crime strikes at the very foundation of
religious freedom, among the fundamental principles upon which this
country was built.”
SALDEF is responding to
many of local and national media inquiries to provide accurate and timely
information as they report on the tragic events of the day, and we will
continue to serve as a resource through the coming days. If you receive
any media requests that you would like assistance with please contact
SALDEF at 202.393.2700 or at info@saldef.org
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