(New York, NY) August 6, 2012 – The Sikh American Chamber of Commerce (SACC), a nationwide non-profit organization for Sikh Americans, today offers its thoughts and prayers to victims and families of the Oak Creek shootings in Wisconsin. There are over 500,000 followers of Sikhism living in the United States, and the New York-based Sikh American Chamber of Commerce has offered its continued support to the local Sikh community.

“As more details emerge, the Sikh community sends its thoughts and prayers to the victims, their families, and all those affected by the tragic shooting in Oak Creek,” Sunny Kaila, President of the SACC, said. “Regardless of race or religion, this is a tragedy felt by all Americans throughout Wisconsin and the entirety of the country.

The Gurdwara (or Sikh Temple) in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, was founded in 1997 and had over 400 worshipers that lived and worked in the greater Milwaukee area.

“While we don’t yet know the reasons behind such a heinous act of violence, the Sikh community often suffers from misconceptions about its faith, and must continue to educate the wider community on the peaceful nature of our religion,” Mr. Kaila said.

Founded in the 15th century, Sikhism is a monotheistic religion with a fundamental belief in the equality of all humanity. With over 25 million followers worldwide, it is the fifth largest religion in the world.

Representatives from the Sikh American Chamber of Commerce are available for expert commentary on Sikhism and Sikhs living in the United States and New York.

For media inquiries please contact Sunny Kaila, President of the Sikh American Chamber of Commerce.

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The Sikh American Chamber of Commerce (SACC) is a non-profit organization comprised of a cross section of Sikh American member businesses. Established in 2011 with the vision to bring together Sikh American Businesses and Professionals in the spirit of enterprise, the SACC’s goal is to provide a forum for effective business networking, promote entrepreneurship within the community and assist other Sikh American professionals in the continued growth of their business so that the Sikh American community may thrive.