MARCH 6, 2004
24th Phalgun, 535 Nanakshahi
Community Voice
Attorney-General's office to Start Investigation into Bias Crime Involving Sikh Teen Victims
LODI, NEW JERSEY- UNITED SIKHS is working with the New Jersey Attorney General Office, which will start an investigation regarding a crime involving two Sikh teens whose hair was cut during a vicious attack.
Two Sikh teens returning home from their jobs were viciously attacked on March 3, 2004, while waiting for the bus. They were approached by an African-American man who snatched their money when they removed it from their pockets to pay the bus fare.
The assailant ran into nearby Memorial Park and the Sikh teens followed in pursuit. After entering the park the assailant was joined by four accomplices who then physically attacked the Sikh teens and then proceeded to forcefully remove their turbans and cut their hair.
Yadwinder Singh, President of the American Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (AGPC), visited the families of the two Sikh teens. He spoke with UNITED SIKHS and said that the, "families are terrified and concerned for the boys." They have chosen not to release the names of the Sikh teens to the media.
Captain Quatrone of Lodi police has said that an investigation is underway but the Sikh boys have stated that they will not be able to identify the assailants. The Sikh community is also considering an offer of a reward for a
ny information regarding this alleged crime. Representatives of the New Jersey Sikh community, UNITED SIKHS, and Sikh Youth of America will be meeting with the principal of the school attended by the Sikh teens to discuss this matter further. At this time the police investigation is continuing while the Sikh community comforts the affected families.
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Mission
To transform underprivileged and minority communities and individuals into informed and vibrant members of society through civic, educational and personal development programs, by fostering active participation in social and economic activity.
UNITED SIKHS is also an avenue for networking between like-minded organisations to establish and nurture meaningful projects and dialogues - whether social, cultural or political- to promote harmony, understanding and reciprocity in our villages, towns and cities.
UNITED SIKHS is a coalition of organisations and individuals, who share a common vision based on the belief that there is no greater endeavor than to serve, empower and uplift fellow beings. The core of our philosophy is an unwavering commitment to civic service and social progress on behalf of the common good.
Accordingly, UNITED SIKHS has sought to fulfill its mission not only by informing, educating and uplifting fellow beings but also by participating in cross-cultural and political exchanges to ensure that the promises and benefits of democracy are realized by all.
We at UNITED SIKHS believe that the development of enlightened and progressive societies can be made possible by socially conscious groups of people who make a commitment to develop and direct human potential. Our work, efforts and achievements stand as a testament to our faith in this vision.
