The Hindu community in the Bay Area is deeply concerned about the escalating Hinduphobia, evidenced by the recent targeted attacks on Hindu temples and individuals. These hate crimes not only endanger the safety of our community but also challenge the core principles of religious freedom upheld by our nation.
Among the targeted temples are SMVS Shri Swaminarayan Temple in Newark (Dec. 22), Vijay’s Sherawali Temple in Hayward (Dec. 24), Shiv Durga Temple in Santa Clara (Dec. 30), Shree Ashta Lakshmi Temple in Fremont (Jan. 5), and Pancha Mukha Hanuman Temple in Dublin (Jan. 11). Additionally, there have been assaults on an individual, arson at the Indian Embassy, and desecration of two Mahatma Gandhi statues.
Having lived in this country for almost five decades, I have never felt as vulnerable and unsafe as I do today. These attacks are not isolated incidents but rather indicative of a distressing trend targeting Hindu institutions and individuals solely based on their religious identity.
While our temples have bolstered security measures, we cannot confront this issue in isolation. We urgently need the support and solidarity of the wider San Mateo County community to unequivocally condemn these acts of hatred and champion religious tolerance and diversity.
I implore the residents of San Mateo County to unite in denouncing Hinduphobia and fostering a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect for all faiths.
(7) comments
This is indeed welcome news. It's been reported that a San Jose man has been apprehended and charged in connection with a string of burglaries targeting churches and temples across the South Bay, where significant amounts of donations were stolen. You can find more details in the official source: https://countyda.sccgov.org/news/news-release/san-jose-man-charged-burglarizing-churches-and-temples-stealing-donations.
A heartfelt thank you to the diligent efforts of the police department involved. Your support and dedication are truly appreciated.
Instances like these highlight the effectiveness of law enforcement and community cooperation. It's a testament to the strength of our justice system and the commitment to upholding safety and security for all. This is just one example of why the resilience of America shines through.
Thank you, Rick and the Peninsula Multifaith Coalition, for your thoughtful message here: https://www.smdailyjournal.com/opinion/letters_to_editor/faith-communities-working-together/article_389d649a-dc27-11ee-92f5-e7575a6f39de.html. It carries significant meaning for the Hindu community. Recently, I had the opportunity to make a presentation, which I believe provides a comprehensive perspective. You can view it here: https://youtu.be/l3mO3XsJdtQ
We are alarmed at any incident of vandalism or expression of intolerance. We have been the subjects of such behavior and we know the damage it caused to be made to feel unsafe in your sanctuary. At The Congregational Church of the Peninsula in Belmont, CA we offer our prayers of support and commitment of solidarity to our Hindu siblings throughout the area. You are not alone. With sincere hearts, Rev. Jim Mitulski and the congregation of CCP
[sad] Let me add some matters of concern to Hindus that were not included in the letter. Five temple incidents are already included in the letter, here are #6-11.
#6. Sri Sai Temple, Pleasanton (tbc)
#7. A Hindu American individual in Fremont had endured verbal abuse and was spat on because of his religious identity (2022).
#8-9. The Indian consulate in San Francisco was vandalized (March 2023) and had an arson attack (July 2023).
#10-11. Instances of desecration also extended to Mahatma Gandhi statues at Tulsi Mandir in New York (2022) and Davis, CA (2021).
Last year there was a caste bill SB-403, later it was vetoed by the governor. It created lots of anti-Hindu feelings in California. Here is a sample of some anti-Hindu messages: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGQ4r4ElLyQ [sad]
Our main concern is--where will it end?
Not to diminish the attacks on Hindus but aren't the same low-lives attacking anything Roman Catholic and Jewish? It appears to be a trend that is mostly ignored by our law and order types. Only political capital will stop it and that has not been effectively embraced by the aforementioned groups.
Dirk, I agree, others have also faced the same. I do not mean to undermine others, but just listing concerns from Hindu side, ... that were not largely present in my past 48 years in America. To have 6 incidents in the Bay area in the past two months is little too much, I hope it is not a trend.
what's the latest on the shooting at St. Augustine's in South SF? Ever learn the motive?
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