CIOGC Offers Condolences to Sikh Community Following Shooting at Wisconsin Temple
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Mon, 06 Aug 2012 19:10:34 GMT
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CIOGC Offers Condolences to Sikh Community Following Shooting at Wisconsin Temple
(Chicago, IL-August 6, 2012) - The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago (CIOGC) is deeply saddened by the tragedy that occurred today at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. CIOGC condemns the shooting that occurred Sunday morning that has left, according to news reports, six people and the gunman dead, at least 3 others in critical condition, and many others injured.
“We stand together with our brothers and sisters in the Sikh community and offer our heartfelt sympathy. Faith communities are united against violence, bigotry and hate. We must address the crisis of gun violence in more proactive ways to prevent such senseless crimes” said CIOGC Chairman Dr. Zaher Sahloul.
“The Illinois Muslim Community extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the Sikh community on this sad day” stated Ahlam Jbara, CIOGC Associate Director
Details regarding the motivation of the perpetrator are currently unknown. Law enforcement, including local police and the FBI, is investigating the incident as an act of domestic terrorism.
While the facts are still emerging, this event serves as a tragic reminder of violence in the form of hate crimes that Sikhs and many members of the Muslim, South Asian and Arab communities have frequently endured since September 11th, 2001.
The Sikh faith is the fifth-largest in the world, with more than 25 million followers. It includes belief in one God and that the goal of life is to lead an exemplary existence.
The temple in Oak Creek was founded in October 1997 and has a congregation of 350 to 400 people. There are an estimated 500,000 or more Sikhs in the United States.
Resources and information:
SEE: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-201_162-57486965/shooting-at-sikh-temple-in-wis-at-least-7-dead/
SEE: Muslim Community Safety Kit
SEE: Statement by the President on the Shooting in Wisconsin
SEE: Statements from Sikh American organizations that are part of the National Coalition of South Asian Organizations
Sikh Coalition
Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund
UNITED SIKHS
For more information Contact: Ahlam Jbara, ajbara@ciogc.org312-399-3796 (mobile)
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