Sikh Temple in Canada Vandalized, Community Leader Appeals People to Speak Against Racism

A Sikh temple in Canada’s British Columbia was vandalized on Nov.19 by unidentified people, who sprayed a wall with black paint to write some racist words. Investigations to identify the vandals are undergoing.

The graffiti near the parking lot of Kelowna’s Sikh temple named Gurdwara Guru Amardas Darbar Sikh Society was found around 10 am, reported Coast Mountain Views.

The publication quoted Tarsem Singh Goraya , president of the temple, as saying, “It’s just sad, it’s very upsetting that there are some people like this that still have that mentality. Everyone is treated the same under our religion, but this, out of ignorance, I just don’t know.”

It was also reported that Sikh temple has been targeted in a racial attack earlier as well but at that time police was not informed. But this time, temple authorities contacted police immediately.

Goraya said, “We thought someone maybe wasn’t happy or something so we just ignored it.”

“I hope they (the vandals) gain some knowledge… There is always going to be a difference of opinions but humans are all the same,” he added as per the report.

After this latest vandalizing incident, a Sikh community leader has appealed to the people to speak up about the racism.

Amanpreet Singh Hundal, who is B.C. vice-president of the World Sikh Organization of Canada, told Radio West, “I was very surprised that in 2018 this type of event would take place.”

“It’s just an opportunity for us to do a lot more education,” he added.

He said that Sikh community has always tried its level best to remain positive. He believes that few people in Kelowna have hateful views in their minds. He appeals people to speak out when they hear about racism.

Terming this incident an opportunity for the community members to do a lot more education, he said, “That’s your chance to not be silent… We all have a responsibility.”

“That’s an opportunity for us,” he was quoted by Radio West as saying.