Sentencing statement from the Sodhi family and the

[gupt faujaan]

In response to the proceeding, let us refer to the sacred Sikh writings that we as Sikhs refer to for guidance.

“God has counted all the days and the breaths that each one of us might breathe, and placed them in our life, in our destiny; we do not increase or decrease those days or breaths one little bit. One comes and goes on this earth, subject to the will of the Infinite Lord.”

We pray for Mr. Rogue, his family and for the jury – may the burdens and sorrow be lifted as we together follow the wisdom and guidance of the jury.

We have to go back and remember that in the aftermath of September 11th, men, women, and children from all faiths and cultures have been affected by the acts of violence and discrimination.

Even today every week in national newspapers like India Abroad and News India-Times, we read reports of violence and even homicides committed against Indian Americans, especially Sikhs working in gas stations, convenience stores, or driving taxis.

These hard working citizens performing some of the thankless jobs in America. They are also vulnerable to physical harm due to their solitary conditions and late work hours."

Today - You gave the message that because of perceived differences we cannot target other Americans - innocent people who are just as affected by the September 11th attack on our country.

Today you have given the message hate crimes will be prosecuted. There can be no justification for attacking these fellow Americans simply because of their skin color or religion.

We want to commend this Judge, the jury, the attorneys and you our neighbors because our legal system has taken the necessary steps towards rooting

out those who seek to harm innocent people. What a difficult task you have undertaken – bless you for your courage.

This week it was stated in the United States Congress “That the Sikhs, have been targeted with violence because they have been incorrectly associated with those responsible for the 9/11 attacks”.

Hate crimes and backlash murders continue to be the invisible causalities of September 11th and the war on extremism. Balbir Singh Sodhi was the first such death categorized as a hate crime.

After Balbir Singh’s death, you the media and most of all you the neighbors, the jury, the community sent the message to the world “protects the innocent people.”

Today, you once again confirmed that message. We honor you – you stood up at a time of extreme crises and said, “No gentle person, no child, no culture and no religion should be condemned, assaulted or targeted because of the unspeakable acts of others.” Bless you for your bravery.

In the intensity after September 11th as a community we made a difference. Today, the world was watching and together we took the position no more hate crimes.