ICHRA
Condemning Las Vegas Terror Attack, Sikhs Equipped to Help and Heal
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| Las Vegas, NV: UNITED SIKHS condemns the senseless act of terror that shook Las Vegas Sunday night. Described as the worst mass shooting in modern American history, a gunman open-fired on a crowd gathered for an outdoor country music festival. The gruesome episode has taken the lives of almost 60 people and has left more than 500 people injured. This event strikes a deep chord in the Sikh community; we are reminded of the Oak Creek mass-shooting, where a gunman shot and killed 6 Sikhs in the Gurdwara. We stand in solidarity with every community affected by gun violence. |
| Speaking on the situation, UNITED SIKHS Director, Manwinder Singh, said, “we are deeply saddened by last night’s massacre in Las Vegas, and our heart goes out to all the victims and their families. With the country waking up to the news, UNITED SIKHS extended itself, and rescue and support operations have already begun. We urge people to remain calm and hope that peace returns to Las Vegas soon. We strongly condemn all acts of violence and intend to take this up strongly.” |
| Our team has partnered with Gurdwaras, where shelter, hot meals (langar) and other assistance is being offered to all who may need it. Sikh taxi drivers are volunteering to drive people to their destinations to ensure that people reach safely. We are working tirelessly to provide comfort and relief in all ways possible so that peace can be maintained in the city. |
| Amar Singh, coordinator of UNITED SIKHS in Las Vegas said, “as much as we are pained, it’s time for us to act. Working with the authorities, the Sikhs in Vegas have extended the gurdwaras as shelters for those that need help and free taxi services to those impacted and need to get to a secure place. I have opened my rental properties to anyone who needs shelter.” |
| While the tragic events in Las Vegas shocked the nation, we must acknowledge the light of love that sprung forth in the hearts of the people. We thank all first-responders, police officers, and volunteers who courageously ushered those caught in the gun-fire to safety. We are heartened to see compassion so readily on display. UNITED SIKHS is collaborating with local Sikh-American communities across the US to organize vigils to remember and honor those who have fallen, as well as to reflect and heal as a nation. |
| For those in Las Vegas and surrounding areas, UNITED SIKHS is ready to help at any time. Please call 911 in the case of any urgent help. For shelter or taxi services, you may reach out to Amar Singh Chadha at +1 (702) 807-1737 or UNITED SIKHS at 1-888-243-1690. |
| There is also an urgent need for blood donations. If you are able to donate please email sikhaid@unitedsikhs.org or call 1-888-243-1690. |