Within hours of news of the Sikh gurdwara (house of worship) massacre, Groundswell supporters across the U.S. and around the world voiced our support and prayers for the community in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.
On Sunday, August 12th, Groundswell Director Valarie Kaur hand-delivered 4,000 solidarity letters sent in by Groundswell supporters to the families and community in Wisconsin. During the first service at the Sikh gurdwara since the mass shooting, the children of the six Sikh men and women who were killed in the attack accepted the letters on the community's behalf.
Watch the video of the delivery below.
At 2:58, when we deliver the notes, you can hear Sikhs shout "Jakara" (an exultation).
"Bole So Nihal" means, Whoever utters shall be fulfilled.
The congregation responds, "Sat Sri Akal!" Eternal and True is the Divine (God).
May this story help us remember what we can achieve when we act together for a world where every person can live, work, and worship in peace. Please share this video with your friends, family, colleagues and networks via Facebook and Twitter:
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On behalf of the Sikh community and Groundswell, thank you for your activism, compassion, and courage.
View the map of some of the 4000+ messages sent from around the country
Read Valarie's recap with day by day reports from Oak Creek.
Check out our media hits - including coverage on CNN, MSNBC, and NPR.
The 2013 Stanford University Baccalaureate address by Groundswell's Founding Director, Valarie Kaur.
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My wish is that the unfortunate and unwarranted loss of life will be the last in the USA. Life is so precious and short that no one has the right to terminate it even one day before the natural parting form this world.
Such a touching video, I felt so much emotion to the people that died, the families and friends that lost so much and for the Sikh community that was affected. I have a love and respect for all people and their religions. We are all one people. I pray for a just and humane world and for humanity to grow away from violence.
My signature is one of the 4,000 on those letters presented in this video, and yet it seems to insufficient. Blessings and love to you all.
May the Light of the Truth shine into all hearts who are dark with sorrow. May healing and remembrance ease the pain of loss.
God blesss you in your grief. May the madness stop and Love reign over America!
Correction: It should read: God bless you in your grief. May the madness
cease and Love and Wisdom reign over America!!
I send my Deepest sympathies to all of the Sikh families. The Video was so beautiful, it brought tears to my eyes.
I have a dear friend in Maylasia who is Sikh, he is kind, gentle, and with a loving spirit.
May all of be blessed…
I am Jewish. Yet the Sikhs’ have a tender spirit.
May all of you be Blessed
With a Kind Spirit
Susan Esquivel