Damn, has it been a year? August 5 marks the one-year anniversary of mass shooting at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin in Oak Creek, where six died and four were wounded when a racist gunman opened fire during temple services. To honor those whose lives were lost or injured on that horrific day, the temple will be holding the first annual Oak Creek Sikh Memorial Anniversary. Here's a rundown of the commemorative events:
Friday, August 2, 2013Everyone is welcome to participate in all events. For further information, go to the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin's website here. If you're not in the area, wherever you are, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the tragedy, the victims, and what we can do to stop hate violence.
10:30 a.m. - Akhand Paath, a continuous recitation of Shri Guru Granth Sahib, commences at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin. It will last 48-hours and conclude on Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m.
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. - Remembrance of the six departed souls at U.S. Federal Court House located at 517 East Wisconsin Avenue in Milwaukee, WI.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
8:30 a.m. - Registration for Chardhi Kala 6K Memorial Run/Walk: Turning Tragedy into Triumph at Oak Creek High School track area located at 340 E. Puetz Road in Oak Creek, WI.
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. - Chardhi Kala 6K Run/Walk followed by food and games for the entire family. For more information, please visit http://www.chardhikala6k.org/
Sunday, August 4, 2013 - MAIN EVENT
10:30 a.m. - Akhand Paath concludes at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin.
11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. - Kirtan, hymns sung in the praise of God, at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin.
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. - Tributes to the departed souls, at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin.
Monday, August 5, 2013
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. - Simran, contemplative meditation, at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin.
8:00 p.m. - Community Candlelight Vigil at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin.