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Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsShootings at a Temple Test the Founding Faith of America
http://www.thenation.com/blog/169242/shootings-temple-test-founding-faith-americaPresident Obama echoed the sentiments of the essential founder of the American experiment in his response to Sunday's horrific killings at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin.
"As we mourn this loss which took place at a house of worship," said Obama, "we are reminded how much our country has been enriched by Sikhs, who are a part of our broader American family."
That notion of the Sikh community as "part of our broad American family" is not a new one. Sikhs have been a part of the American religious fabric for the better part of two centuries.
The members of this religion, which preaches tolerance and places high emphasis the protection of the religious and political rights of all people, fit comfortably within the Jeffersonian ideal of religious diversity and regard for genuine religious freedom.
handmade34
(22,756 posts)said by Nariander Singh from the Sikh Coalition...
I just want to say I blame all the people that work to divide us... right wing politicians, the media, corporations, anyone who talks about "the other"
I am angry that society has not progressed even though many of us have tried so hard to to fight the hate, apathy and sterotypes that abound out there...
cali
(114,904 posts)but because I was curious about the statement by Mr. Nichols that Sikhs have been part of the American fabric "for the better part of two centuries", I did some basic research. That, evidently, is not true. It's the better part of one century. Why does it matter? Because facts matter in journalism.
http://www.sikhphilosophy.net/sikh-heritage/5753-history-of-sikh-diaspora-canada-usa.html