Six years ago, on August 5, a neo-Nazi entered the Oak Creek Gurdwara and opened fire on the Sangat, killing six Sikh Americans and wounding four, in one of the worst acts of violence at a place of worship in US History. Join us in reflection on this terrible attack on our community that took the lives of Satwant Singh Kaleka, Paramjit Kaur, Sita Singh, Ranjit Singh, Prakash Singh, and Suveg Singh Khattra.

In the days, months, and years that have followed, we have seen the Sikh American, and wider American community, join together to dedicate themselves to Seva (selfless service), to hosting events to dispel misconceptions about Sikh Americans, and to support the families of the victims.

In the aftermath of this tragedy, as Americans we have shown that we are stronger when we come together as one people, and a unified nation.

In spite of the progress we have made as a nation and as a community there is still a lot of work to be done. In this past year we have seen a rise in hate crimes as stated by the FBI and even this past week there was a hate crime committed near San Jose, CA. “At a time when divisive rhetoric has taken over our country, we have to remain vigilant while still staying in steadfast to our beliefs and principles,” said SALDEF Executive Director Baldev Singh. “The Oak Creek sangat remains a shining example for how Sikhs should be and help us keep renewed spirits of Chardhi Kala.”

Join us to the honor the memory of the Sikh Americans killed at the Oak Creek Gurdwara by sharing your thoughts and prayers for the families or the wider American community, via email or connecting with us on SALDEF’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using the hashtag #RememberOakCreek.

As always, we encourage you to practice your faith freely and with pride.