Memorial 6K Mixes Heartache, Optimism

In Sikh culture, Chardhi Kala means the spirit of relentless optimism, a philosophy that empowers people to persevere and grow from hardship.

Relentless optimism was certainly an apt phrase for the scene Saturday at Oak Creek High School, where the Chardhi Kala memorial 6K run/walk was held in memory of the six victims of the Aug. 5, 2012 shooting at the Sikh Temple of Wisconsin. 

Many in the crowd and speakers who took the stage prior to the event spoke of coming together and moving forward following the attack. 

Lt. Brian Murphy, shot 12 times during the attack, noted the beautiful, sunny day reminiscent of Aug. 5 of last year, and took that as a positive sign.

"Someone may look at that and say it's eery, to me it just shows a representation of the families, and the hearts, and the souls of this community coming together to bring sunlight and optimism to those left behind," he said.  

The optimism was certainly mixed with a share of heartache. Before the run, family members of those killed during the attack shared memories of their loved ones. They were joined by an emotional Robbie Parker, whose daughter was killed in the Newtown school shooting last December.

"As I've come to know people in this community and the people in the Sikh community, I realize we have a lot more in common than just tragedy," Parker said. 

Parker is one of numerous people who have flown in from other parts of the country for the anniversary events.

One of those is Army Major Kamaljit Kalsi, the first Sikh in the U.S. military able to wear a turban and beard, who continued his public push for the military to let other Sikhs do the same.

Gurpreet Singh, the first and only Sikh to appear on American Idol, began the day by performing the National Anthem on guitar. 

About 1,000 people were expected to participate in the race, which started with a Jarkara—a Sikh exultation of triumph. 

Anniversary events continue at the temple Sunday and Monday, including a candlelight vigil Monday night.