ICHRA
“I will kill you and your family.” – Sikh Man Targeted by Hate Speech & Violence
| A Sikh man recieved death threats and was assaulted at a gas station store front in Washington state. |
 |
| Deepinder Singh |
| Deepinder Singh, a Sikh man, works at a local BP gas station in the suburbs of Seattle. He recounts the story of the man loitering in the store and upon asking if he needed any help, Deepinder Singh received harsh words in reply. In retaliation, the assailant threw his wallet at Deepinder Singh and proceeded to yell, “You have no right to ask me that question. I’m on American land! Go back to your country! I will kill you and your family.” The man continued to harass Deepinder and incoming customers, creating a very hostile environment. |
| The intruder was requested to leave the premises by Deepinder Singh multiple times. However, the man merely walked outside and began destroying public property. Upon a second warning from Deepinder Singh to leave the gas station, the man tried to attack the clerk with a sharp object. Luckily, Deepinder Singh escaped unhurt with co-workers arriving in time to guard him from the attack. The assailant ran away and disappeared. The police were alerted of this incident. However, the assailant has not yet been found and brought to justice. |
| UNITED SIKHS is working with the United States Department of Justice, Community Relations Service to have meetings with the community leadership and local police department so that their grievances are addressed with on discussions improvised security measures in that location. We are coordinating with Federal Way’s mayor and with Office of Civil Rights Division, US Department of Justice, requesting further investigation of this incident. We are thankful to Bruce F. Miyake, the Assistant United States Attorney, Western District of Washington for engaging the FBI to connect with the Federal Way Police Department. |
| UNITED SIKHS urges the Sikh community to vigilant but in Chardi Kala (ever-rising spirits!) as we navigate incidents like this one. For any issues related to discrimination, violence or suspected hate-crimes, UNITED SIKHS Legal Team is standing ready to help protect your rights. You can all our legal team at 888-243-1690. Please call 911 in the case of an emergency. |
