Dear Editor,
Several prominent American politicians and Hindu community leaders came out on midday Tuesday in sweltering heat to express their outrage and condemnation of the vandalization and desecration of the Mahatma Gandhi statue in front of the Tulsi Mandir in Little Guyana, Richmond Hill. The statue has been there for several years.
Gandhi’s statue was destroyed last Thursday by three individuals that CCTV camera footage revealed were of Hispanic origin. Tuesday’s rally in front of the mandir was organized by elected New York State Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar. “We gather to condemn last week’s hate crime”. Jennifer noted that Gandhi stood for non-violence and social justice. “Love, peace, harmony, and tolerance constituted Gandhi’s dream.”
“All ethnic groups live together here”. She added: “Gandhi sacrificed material life for service and his actions motivated me to take up public service. His principles were rooted in Hinduism – nonviolence and soul force. He obtained India’s independence without shooting a bullet. Martin Luther King was influenced by Gandhi; Dr. King used Gandhian principles to fight American segregation”.
The follow up speakers continued the theme in condemning hate crimes. Community leader and organizer, Romeo Hitlall, condemned the act. “I denounce hate crime. As Hindus, we live and embrace each other.” Pt. Maraj said that some six years ago, jhandi flags were set on fire. He said the police promised an investigation but there was no follow up action. He thanked the politicians and the gathering for their support. Pandit Ram Hardowar, spiritual leader of Shri Surya Mandir (172nd St) and President of the United Federation of Mandirs, joined the chorus in condemning the attack on Gandhi’s statue.
Congressman Gregory Meeks told the gathering that he wished “we are here to celebrate what Gandhi stands for. I wish if I were here to talk about how we are a better borough, city, state, country because of Gandhi and the celebration of his life.” Assemblyman David Weprin also condemned the violent act against Gandhi’s statue. He said the diversity of our city and state recognizes all religions and faiths.
Sincerely,
Vishnu Bisram
