Message From South Asian Organizations about the Fort Hood, Texas Tragedy

Message From the South Asian Organizations concerning the Fort Hood, Texas Tragedy
 
Nov 06- Members of the National Coalition of South Asian Organizations (NCSO) offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those killed and wounded in the acts of violence at Fort Hood, Texas, yesterday that left 13 dead, 31 wounded, and communities around the country in shock and grief.
 
People of all faiths and backgrounds are united in concern and sympathy for the victims and their families, and for the community at Fort Hood.  We urge community members to explore how they can provide support and resources to address the impact of the violence.
 
The suspect has been identified as Army Major Nidal Malik Hasan.   As facts emerge, we expect law enforcement agencies to conduct a vigorous investigation in order to seek justice for the victims. 
 
Regrettably, in the past, the actions of one individual from a particular ethnic background or religious faith have led to the scapegoating of entire communities based on actual or perceived ethnicity, religion, and national origin.   We call on political leaders, the media, and the public to set a tone of unity as the investigation unfolds and the healing process begins.  We also urge community members to contact local law enforcement and community-based organizations for assistance and information in the event of possible backlash. 
 
As our country moves forward, the NCSO shares our condolences and commits to participating in our collective healing process.
 
For more information, please contact South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT) at 301-270-1855 or saalt@saalt.org.


This statement is issued by the following members of the National Coalition of South Asian Organizations.
-Adhikaar for Human Rights
-Andolan
-Chaya
-Coney Island Avenue Project
-Council of Peoples Organization
-Daya
-Desis Rising Up and Moving
-Hamdard Center
-Indo-American Center
-Manavi
-Michigan Asian Indian Family Services
-Narika
-Raksha
-Saathi of Rochester
-Sahara of South Florida
-Sakhi for South Asian Women
-Sikh American Legal Defense & Education Fund
-South Asian Americans Leading Together
-South Asian American Policy and Research Institute
-South Asian Council for Social Services
-South Asian Health Initiative
-South Asian Youth Action
-The Sikh Coalition
-Trikone NW
-Turning Point
-UNITED SIKHS