HR1193 97TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR1193 LRB097 22422 GRL 71182 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, A devastating act of violence occurred at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin on August 5, 2012, in Oak Creek, Wisconsin; and

WHEREAS, Members of the American Sikh community have a long-standing commitment to the United States, demonstrated by their record of military heroism, devotion to public service, and contribution to the economic activity and prosperity of this country; and

WHEREAS, This recent massacre in Wisconsin, a recent fire that destroyed a mosque in Joplin, Missouri, and the aftermath of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, have caused Sikhs, Muslims, South Asian Americans, Arab Americans, and other communities in the Midwest and the country at large to live under an unfair burden of vulnerability; and

WHEREAS, There has been a growth in rhetorical attacks, harassment, intimidation, bullying, and extreme violence against these communities; and

WHEREAS, A crime like this should be condemned, regardless of what ethnic or religious group is targeted; and

WHEREAS, In the United States and in Illinois, the principles of tolerance, religious freedom, trust, and safety are vital to the sense of community shared by all people; and

WHEREAS, The fundamental American values of justice and equality for all are vital foundations of who we are as a people, while xenophobia, racism, anti-religious rhetoric, and extreme violence have no place in our society; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we encourage tolerance and the prevention of future violence by promoting education about diverse cultures and religions, grounded in the belief that this makes us strong as a community and a nation; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we are grateful to the first responders, congregants, and the local community in Wisconsin who helped to save lives and prevent even greater loss; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we denounce any and all hate-fueled violence and bigotry in public and political discourse and encourage civic engagement and participation among all Illinois residents, including immigrants and minorities.