In December 2015, a Grand Rapids sales clerk who was Sikh was targeted in a racially and religiously motivated shooting attack and robbery. Because of this local incident of violence sparked by misunderstanding and stereotyping of someone perceived as "other," host Katie Gordon speaks with Rishi Makkar, a local business owner and follower of the Sikh religion. They discuss what happened in December, why it should be considered a hate crime, and how communities can respond to events like this by getting to know their neighbors. Makkar shares the values and beliefs of Sikhism, and shows how it is uniquely equipped to respond to events like this by promoting equality, understanding, religious freedom, and inclusive communities.
Learn more about The Sikh Society of West Michigan-Sikh Gurdwara.