California Sikhs contribute $1.35 lakh to run awareness campaign on their faith

WASHINGTON: The Sikh community in Yuba City, California, has raised $1.35 lakh (`90 lakh) as part of a national campaign to educate US citizens about their faith.

Yuba City is home to many gurdwaras and is also known for its Sikh farming community, which owns large farms of almond, peach and raisins.

The National Sikh Campaign has been raising funds across the country to support a media initiative to educate Americans about Sikhs and Sikhism. In recent weeks, two Sikhs have faced violence and hate-filled rhetoric in California. Balmeet Singh of Bakersfield had alcohol put on his face and turban and another Sikh, Maan Singh Khalsa, an IT professional, was attacked in Richmond, California. In both instances, attackers identified them as either a terrorist or Taliban.

"This effort has brought a sense of togetherness within the Sikh community across the nation. Everyone feels connected to this campaign," said Dr Rajwant Singh, co-founder of the National Sikh Campaign. More such events are being planned in coming weeks.

IN RECENT WEEKS, TWO SIKHS HAVE FACED VIOLENCE AND HATE-FILLED RHETORIC IN CALIFORNIA