As an advocate for the Sikh American community, I appreciate your coverage of a challenging and troubling time for one of our community members in Sterling [“Words and action,” Metro, March 26]. However, the article made two assertions that must be addressed. First, it was stated that Sikhism “was formed 300 years ago to oppose Muslim rule in South Asia.” The founding of the faith is generally accepted as occurring more than 500 years ago, with the birth of the first Sikh spiritual teacher, Guru Nanak, in 1469. More important, though, the religion was in no way “founded to oppose Muslim rule.” Instead, Sikhism was founded to spread a message of peace and unity among all members of society regardless of their religion. In fact, the Sikh holy scriptures contain verses composed by both Hindu and Muslim saints. Secondly, the title of the article and tone in general conveys a stronger than necessary immigrant theme to the story. The family targeted by the death-threat letter was not a recent immigrant family, and it should be noted that Sikhs first immigrated to the United States more than 100 years ago.
Despite the challenges highlighted in the article, Sikhs more readily identify themselves as Sikh Americans than as Indian Sikhs. This is partly due to the human rights violations Sikhs have faced in India over the past few decades and to the obvious fact that they live in America and share the ideals and culture of their American neighbors. Jasjit Singh, Washington The writer is associate executive director of the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund. Available at: http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/sikhisms-message-is-one-of-inclusion/2012/04/13/gIQAlKE5FT_story.html