Baltimore, M.D.– The Sikh Mediawatch and Resource Task Force (SMART), a national Sikh civil rights advocacy group, conducted an educational seminar December 7, 2001 for the Director and employees of the Department of Justice Community Relations Service. Trainers from the Baltimore Police Department and members of various Maryland County Human Relations Commissions were also in attendance. This presentation was part of SMART’s ongoing efforts to educate federal government and local law enforcement agencies about Sikhism, explain how the events of September 11, 2001’s terrorist attacks affected the Sikh community, and possible solutions to address the concerns of Sikh Americans. The presentation offered a brief tutorial about the history and theology of the Sikh faith, but primarily focused on breaking down common stereotypes and mis-perceptions of Sikh Americans. In addition, the SMART presenter offered attendees possible solutions to address the issues facing the Sikh Americans community while still maintaining important security measures now in place across the nation. The presentation also highlighted the five articles of faith, giving special attention to the kirpan and turban. Additionally time was devoted to explaining the difference between Sikhs, and other commonly associated religions and cultural groups, stressing Sikh’s separate identity from Hindus, Muslims, and especially the Taliban. SMART believes that the most effective way to prevent further incidents of harassment of Sikh Americans, especially regarding domestic security issues, is continued education about Sikhism to federal agencies and local authorities.
