“We call upon President Obama to rise above the politics of fear and visit the Harmandir Sahib, commonly referred to as the Golden Temple, on his trip to India. The religious site stands for many of the same ideals as America – equality, universality and freedom. In canceling his visit, President Obama emboldens those who seek to divide us based on race and religion. He also gives in to the xenophobic and anti-Islamic trend that has taken over American public discourse in recent months. We call upon President Obama to seize this opportunity to demonstrate to the world that America embraces diversity and will not compromise its principles.” Background notes: Press reports cite the fact that images of President Obama wearing a head-covering, as required of all visitors to the site, may be used to promote the idea that he is not an American or is a Muslim as a factor influencing a decision not to visit the site. About Sikhism: There are approximately 500,000 Sikhs in the United States. Sikhism originated in South Asia over 500 years ago. There are approximately twenty-five million Sikhs worldwide. Observant Sikh Americans are distinguished by their dastaars (Sikh turbans) and uncut hair, and beards for men, all mandated articles of faith. About SALDEF: Founded in 1996, SALDEF is the oldest Sikh American civil rights and educational organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the civil rights of Sikh Americans through advocacy, education, and media relations. SALDEF’s mission is to create a fostering environment in the United States for future generations of Sikh Americans. For more information: www.saldef.org
