New York City Mayor Eric Adams, in a heartfelt address to the Sikh community, emphasized the profound meaning behind the Sikh turban, highlighting its significance as a symbol of faith and protection. This comes in response to recent hate crimes targeting the Sikh community, which Adams described as a "stain" on the nation.
He stressed that Sikhs are not associated with terrorism but rather represent protectors, communities, families, faith, unity, and the city. Mayor Adams underscored the importance of educating people about Sikhism, particularly the youth, and advocated for a change in the dialogue and narrative to reflect the true values of Sikhs.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, accompanied by New York State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, addressed members of the Sikh community during a meeting. The Mayor pledged to protect the Sikh community and announced his commitment to bringing about a positive change in the perception of Sikhs among the public. He expressed his solidarity with the Sikh community, particularly in the face of recent hate crimes and attacks.
Mayor Adams also remembered the recent incidents, such as the assault on a Sikh teenager on a bus and the tragic death of Jasmer Singh, who was attacked following a car collision. The Mayor, joined by Singh's son Subeg Singh Multani and other community members, mourned the loss of Jasmer Singh and condemned the violent acts.
Jenifer Rajkumar, the first Indian-American woman elected to the New York State Office, announced her dedication to ending hate crimes against Sikh Americans through governmental action. She emphasized the need to educate people about Sikhism and ensure that Sikhs are not misunderstood or targeted in a hateful manner.
Rajkumar stated that she will use her position to work towards ending hate crimes against Sikh Americans and protect the community. She expressed her strong determination to bring about a change in the way Sikhs are perceived and treated in society.
During the event, Jenifer Rajkumar presented Mayor Adams with a 'Kirpan,' an important article of faith in Sikhism. The sword was engraved with the words "New York City Mayor Adams is our protector" to symbolize the Mayor's role as a protector of the Sikh community.
Subeg Singh Multani, the son of Jasmer Singh, spoke emotionally about the tragic incident involving his father. He expressed the deep pain of losing his father and urged city officials to take strong measures to ensure the safety of the Sikh community. Multani also called on the Sikh community to show solidarity during Augustin's arraignment, emphasizing the importance of pursuing the case as a hate crime.
Mayor Adams described the loss of a member of the Sikh community as a "stain" on the city and the nation, highlighting the hate and discrimination faced by Sikhs, especially after the 9/11 attacks. He stressed the need to educate people about the true significance of the Sikh turban and promote understanding.
Jenifer Rajkumar addressed the increasing trend of hate crimes against Sikhs nationwide and called for an end to the targeting of Sikh Americans. She emphasized that Sikhs should be recognized as protectors of society and proud Americans with generous hearts.
Mayor Adams expressed the importance of a comprehensive effort to combat hate and educate the public about Sikh values and contributions to society. He applauded the Sikh community for its selfless acts of kindness during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting their role as protectors during challenging times. Mayor Adams concluded by reaffirming the city's obligation to support and stand with the Sikh community in their mission to protect their values and beliefs.
