A very worthwhile discussion which highlights practical steps to be taken by all sections of the community - other communities all over the world should take note. Sikhs also develop and implement a more pro-active strategy in sharing with others the rich heritage of Sikhism

I would love to attend a program that would educate us by sharing information about the Sikhs. We had an Indian lady in our church, who spoke to many of us woman, shared her wedding photos, showed us clothing, had a question and answer period, make food, and just educated us on life in India in general. We left that night with a much broader understanding of her country and culture. She suddenly became someone we could be more comfortable around. It was such a pleasant evening. Ignorance breeds a lot unfavorable things including contempt. Education and sharing can go a long way. I don't want to invade one's persoanl life but a program that teaches us that they are just people too could go a long way in erasing fear in many. Even though we may not go out and shoot someone, do we avoid looking at some and avoid a smile to someone, because we don't know or understand them? If those of us who are peaceful become educated, we can be on the lookout for those who are hateful and may be in our midst. The Sikhs seem to be a private people so we don't know much about them, and that leaves many to make up their own ideas which are usually wrong. Perhaps someone who is shy, or quiet is seen as secretive or snobby and treated with disrespect and fear. We need to find a way to embrace others, not just let them live in our city. I believe the majority of people in Oak Creek are good and caring people. Let's try to show our children all people have value.

While I commend the sentiments behind this discussion and believe everyone's heart is in the right place I would caution people that public schools are not the place for discussions about religion. While the community may want to set up discussions and informational events so that people can learn more about different cultures it must be voluntary and the required separation of church and state prohibits this taking place in public schools. So have a "multicultural" event at the community center with participants from all of our local, representative cultural groups; have churches and temples host events and discussions but step lightly on the idea of "educating" people in public schools. You could be setting yourself up for legal objections.

I am not speaking about your personal preferences or what you may be "ok" with. I am talking about the legality of having discussions about religious cultures in public schools. If your church wants to host a meet and greet, panel discussion, exchange visits then I encourage that. If the community wants to host a "culture" fair so that you can bring your children and expose them to other cultures I think that's a great idea my comment is purely directed at the legality of mixing religion into our public schools, which if you had actually read what I wrote you would have understood.

And vocal local, no I am not wrong and this is not Norway and not everyone in this country is compelled to be Lutheran. I do not think that you can compel everyone to learn about other cultures just because some people thinks it's a good idea. I for one do think it's a good idea however there is a separation of church and state in this country, unlike, say Norway. I too have studied religion in college, not just Christianity, but many world faiths and I have a great respect for other peoples beliefs, even yours, but do not tell me I couldn't be more wrong because you are mistaken.

Ok, Kate. But tell me why we should not have discussions which should lead to enlightenment on religion in public school? Often times I hear people say "I don't discuss religion or politics." When I get that response I cringe. If one's beliefs are sound and valid they should be able to defend their position. We are the melting pot of the world. Unfortunately, religion is taking a back seat in that children are growing up without any religion in the home. Most parents don't belong to any religious institution and are not passing down a solid platform of morality to their children.

we are melting pot,we fail to pass down our religion teachings and respect for other religions and beliefs to our children

I agree with Donna's idea about having members of the Sikh community teach others about their religion and culture to create knowledge and understand amongst other members of the community. As a Sikh from Vancouver, Canada, I know that the temples here hold many events and celebrations for the public to attend in order to celebrate and educate others about the Sikh community. When people come together with open hearts and open minds it always leads to good things and a stronger sense of community. At the end of the day, knowledge is power. Learning about different cultures, religions and customs needs to start at not only a community, level but also a school level as well. If we can get future generations to understand why certain people wear turbans, cover their heads, or eat different foods, it will hopefully lead to a more multicultural minded society.