Spokane Sikh Temple

We are saddened to hear the acts of vandalism at our community Gurdwara. This morning, an individual broke into the Sikh Temple and proceeded to vandalize the interior of the worship space, and destroyed the sacred and holy text. Damages are estimated to be near $50,000.

Just a few months ago, we invited the community to learn more about their Sikh Neighbors. we did this because even though Sikhs have been an integral part of our community for over 100 years, we have seen an uptick in actions fueled by bigotry and hatred recently, both locally and nationally. These events against the Sikh community are shameful. We at the Interfaith Council are committed to having our community meet their neighbors in an effort to break down barriers.

Because in Spokane, we value our neighbors, and know that limiting our conversations to one group is not building community. If we are not actively sharing in the joys and sorrows of our Jewish neighbors, our Sikh neighbors. If we are deaf to the cries for help or the rich laughter of our Muslim neighbor, our atheist neighbor, if we are blind to the celebrations of our Hindu and Christian friends, then we are limiting our compassion and not living up to our share values. Compassion and community are American values. This is not just something people of faith must do, but all people who call themselves American.

In response to these acts, the Spokane Interfaith Council has launched a gofundme account to help offset the costs of the damage. We encourage everyone committed to visit our website for more information on how to donate to this fund, and how to better Meet your Neighbors.