Obama Praises Oak Creek Sikh Community

In his Diwali message, President Barack Obama noted the resilience of the Oak Creek Sikh community following the Aug. 5 attack that left six dead and four wounded.

Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists. It's a time for gathering with family and friends, as well as prayer and reflection.

Obama noted in his message that many who observe this holiday will light the Diya, or lamp, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

"Earlier this year, we were reminded of the evil that exists in the world when a gunman walked into the Sikh gurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin and opened fire. In the wake of that horrible tragedy, we saw the resilience of a community that drew strength from their faith and a sense of solidarity with their neighbors, Sikh and non-Sikh alike," Obama said.

"We also saw compassion and love, in the heroic actions of the first responders and the outpouring of support from people across the country. Out of a day of sadness, we were reminded that the beauty of America remains our diversity, and our right to religious freedom."

Sikhs welcomed the president's words. Rajwant Singh, Chairman of the Washington-based Sikh Council on Religion and Education, said the president's message was inspirational.

"Recognizing Diwali, which is sacred to almost all faiths originating from Indian subcontinent, sends a message that America provides an opportunity for each faith to flourish and all faiths can truly enjoy the religious freedom," Sikh24.com quotes Singh as saying. "This message is especially relevant in light of recent horrific tragedies including the Oak Creek Sikh Gurdwara shooting."