Assault on Cab Driver Highlights Alarming Rise in Hate Crimes Across the country

In a deeply troubling incident, a 50-year-old cab driver was assaulted and punched in the face by an unknown assailant while waiting for a passenger in Manhattan on the morning of September 18, 2024. The attacker reportedly told the victim to “go back to your country,” underscoring the xenophobic nature of the assault.

This incident is not isolated. Ironically, it happened a day after the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on hate crimes, and a month following the arrest of another Sikh taxi driver at the JFK airport. Wrongly charged and discriminated against for his religious belief, the victim was later released and the case dismissed which UNITED SIKHS helped secure.

Regrettably, this reflects a disturbing trend of rising hate crimes across the United States. According to recent FBI data, hate crimes have reached their highest levels in over a decade with a nearly 12% increase in such incidents in recent years. The report reveals that most victims are targeted due to their race, ethnicity, or ancestry, with significant numbers also facing violence due to their sexual orientation and religion.

The assault has had a devastating effect on the victim’s family and the broader Sikh-American community. His family is grappling with the emotional trauma and fear resulting from this violent act. The minority community, which has long faced discrimination and violence, is once again reminded of the persistent threat of hate crimes directed towards Sikhs, Jews, Muslims and other vulnerable groups. This incident has heightened anxiety and fear within these communities, emphasizing the urgent need for protective measures and support.

This alarming rise in hate crimes calls for immediate and concerted action from both federal and local authorities. It is imperative to enhance protective measures for vulnerable communities and ensure that perpetrators of hate crimes are held accountable. Additionally, there is a pressing need for comprehensive education and awareness programs to combat the root causes of hate and intolerance.

UNITED SIKHS through its International Civil and Human Rights Advocacy (ICHRA) program continues to actively represent sikh voices in combating hate crimes and strives to effect positive change and safeguard the rights of Sikhs on a local, national and global scale. To request for legal support or speak to a legal advisor from UNITED SIKHS, reach out to us: