(Seattle, WA) November 27, 2007 - Sukhvir Singh, the Sikh cab driver who was brutally assaulted in a hate attack Saturday night is back in the hospital. Seattle’s Sikh community is organizing a candelight vigil in support of Sukhvir tomorrow evening outside his home. The Coalition urges all concerned people in the Pacific Northwest to attend Wednesday’s vigil in support of Sukhvir.

Sukhvir Singh’s Health
On November 24, 2007, a passenger in Sukhvir’s cab began to verbally abuse him, calling him an “Iraqi terrorist” and threatening to kill him. As his anger escalated, he attacked Sukhvir Singh from the back seat, putting him in a chokehold and knocking off his turban. He pulled Sukhvir Singh’s long hair so hard that clumps of scalp and hair came out. Washington State Police were called to intervene, the attacker was arrested, and Sukhvir Singh was hospitalized overnight.

After being discharged, Sukhvir Singh remained very ill, and checked back into the hospital late Monday night. He is now being held there and treated for acute renal failure.

Prosecutor’s Office Takes Positive Action
In response to press reports overnight, the King County’s Prosecuting Attorney’s Office today stated that the beating is being investigated as a hate crime. In addition, the Federal Bureau of Investigation has opened an investigation into the incident to determine whether to file federal hate crime charges. The Coalition commends the Kings Country Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the United States Justice Department for responding to community concerns.

How Can You Help?
Attend tomorrow’s (Wednesday) candelight vigil for Sukhvir Singh. The vigil is being held at 6:00 p.m. at Sukhvir Singh’s home at 11270 S.E. 224th Place, Kent, WA at 6:00 p.m.

Please bring a candle and something to cover your head, since the sangat will be reciting prayers (rehraas and ardaas) for Sukhvir Singh at the vigil. The vigil will start at 6:00 p.m. sharp.

If you do not live in the Seattle area, you can show your support for Sukhvir Singh by sending him and his family an email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

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We urge all Sikhs to practice their faith fearlessly. If you or someone you know is a victim of discrimination, please report it to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).