Statement from Lisa Durán, Executive Director
Last Thursday, the country experienced yet another devastating episode of gun violence, as a man killed eight people at a FedEx facility — including four Sikh workers — and wounded several others. To all those who lost loved ones in the shooting, know that our hearts are with you. And to the Sikh community, we stand in solidarity with you and pledge to continue fighting the racism and xenophobia that fuel this violence.
The timing of this attack is particularly hurtful; the shooting occurred only days after Vaisakhi, the most significant holiday in the Sikh calendar, during Indiana’s Sikh Awareness and Appreciation month.
For many, this event’s nature as a possible hate crime may bring up memories of past anti-Sikh violence. Colorado in particular has its own recent past to grapple with, including a 2019 incident in which a man ran over Sikh business owner Lakhwant Singh. Thankfully, Mr. Singh survived the incident, and his attacker was charged with a hate crime. Nonetheless, the incident illuminates the violence and danger that the Sikh community and the larger Asian American community continue to face. As always, CIRC stands committed to ending hate and violence and taking necessary action to bring about a more just society where everyone feels welcomed and safe.