SALDEF Assisting Local Community; Ensuring Accurate Media Coverage about Sikhs 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.
