Deptford-Based Sikhs to Hold Vigil for Wisconsin Shooting Victims

Regardless of race or religion, the shooting which left six dead in Wisconsin after has rocked many to their core. 

And when Sikh communities from all over come out with heavy hearts to remember and to mourn those who died, joining them will be those in Deptford.

Bhaghwant Singh Bhatti, president of the Guru Nanak Sikh Society of Delaware Valley, will lead a candlelight vigil for the Wisconsin victims, set for 7:00 p.m. Wednesday outside the temple on Delsea Drive in Deptford. Bhatti met with Deptford Police Chief Daniel Murphy earlier to ensure the vigil could take place safely.

“We have to be alert, for security,” says Bhatti.

Bhatti says this is not the first time members of the Sikh community have felt fear. The September 11 terrorist attacked led to misguided ill will toward the Sikh society, after many Sikhs were confused for Muslims and targeted for hate crimes.

“Sometimes they think we Hindu or we are Muslim,” says Bhatti. “We are none of them.”

Sikhism is a monotheistic religion which originated in India, and is currently the fifth largest religion in the world. Sikhs reject all idol worship, caste systems and superstitions. Most importantly, they believe all people are equal.

“All races are the same, that’s the basic principle,” says Bhatti.