Oak Creek Sikh Temple Shooting Remembered Locally And Beyond

OAK CREEK, WI — Friday will mark 10 years since a gunman opened fire inside the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin in Oak Creek.

The attack stole the lives of six worshippers that day, Aug. 5, 2012. A seventh worshipper died from his injuries in 2020. The gunman, a noted white supremacist, took his own life. As we approach the 10th anniversary of the attack, efforts are being made locally and beyond to remember the lives we lost and honor all who were impacted.

The Sikh Temple of Wisconsin planned several days of events marking the anniversary, including a remembrance vigil on Friday. The vigil, starting at 6 p.m., will bring words from impacted families, prayers, reflections, music and poetry.

On Saturday, the temple will host a Chardi Kala community event which includes workshops, interfaith conversations, blood donations, turban tying and more. On Sunday, there will be a tribute to the departed souls and more.

All are welcome to participate in the series of events, which will take place at the temple at 7512 South Howell Avenue. A full schedule is available online.

SEE ALSO: Oak Creek Sikh Temple Shooting: 5 Years Ago As It Happened

Further efforts to recognize the attack came this week at the state and national levels. On Wednesday, Gov. Tony Evers ordered flags across the state to be flown at half-staff on Friday.

“This anniversary represents a painful day for our state and so many Wisconsinites," Evers said in a statement alongside his flag order, "especially for the now seven people whose friends and families mourn their passing, the many others still grappling with their injuries and trauma every day, and the many worshippers, loved ones, and neighbors who either witnessed the violence themselves or who’ve helped provide support, comfort, and healing to those who did.”

In reaction to the flag order, the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin thanked Evers.

“Together, we will continue to persevere in the Sikh spirit of chardi kala—relentless optimism in the face of struggle—as we push for a society free from fear or hate," the temple said in a statement.

On Tuesday, both of Wisconsin's U.S. Senators, Tammy Baldwin and Ron Johnson, proposed a resolution in the Senate recognizing the tragedy.

The resolution seeks to honor the memory of those who died, recognize those who were injured, thank the bravery of first responders, and praise the Sikh community for their work to bring people together after the attack.

“I am continually inspired by the Sikh community’s resilience in the face of tragedy and ability to heal," said Baldwin in a statement. "I stand in solidarity with Sikh community in Wisconsin and nationwide today, and every day.”

The resolution was similar to one Johnson proposed on the year anniversary of the tragedy.

"We remember those who lost their lives in this unnecessary tragedy," said Johnson in a statement. "I especially want to highlight the heroism of two officers of the Oak Creek Police Department who acted bravely in the aftermath of the attack, Lieutenant Brian Murphy and Officer Savan Lenda. I am grateful for their service and dedication to the people of Wisconsin."

SEE ALSO:

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