In the wake of increasing hostility toward the Sikh community following the 9/11 attacks, Sikh Gurudwaras in the United States faced significant challenges. The tragic events, including the massacre at a Gurudwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, in August 2012, highlighted the urgent need for preparedness against such violence. Despite these threats, it was imperative to maintain the centuries-old Sikh tradition of keeping Gurudwaras open and welcoming to all.

UNITED SIKHS representatives Harpreet Singh and Gurpreet Kaur conducting the workshop at the Lankershim Gurdwara.

To address this challenge, our task was to equip Gurudwaras and their communities with the necessary tools and knowledge to handle emergencies, including natural disasters and violent incidents, without compromising their inclusive ethos. Our goal was to foster a sense of confidence and resilience within the community after the ethos.

Among the attendees were prominent members, management and staff of the Lankershim Gurdwara Sahib.

In response, on August 28, 2016, UNITED SIKHS organized an “Emergency Preparedness for the Gurudwaras” workshop at the Lankershim Gurudwara Sahib in California. The workshop, led by UNITED SIKHS representatives Harpreet Singh and Gurpreet Kaur, provided hands-on training in several critical areas:

• Understanding the importance of emergency preparedness for Gurudwaras.
• Basic training on how to respond to an active shooter situation.
• Guidance on protecting vulnerable members of the Sikh community.
• Developing and maintaining an Emergency Action Plan for Gurudwaras.

Prominent members, management, and staff of the Lankershim Gurudwara Sahib attended the workshop, recognizing the importance of the initiative.
The workshop effectively enhanced the preparedness of the Lankershim Gurudwara Sahib and its members, equipping them with a stronger understanding of community protection in crises. Gurcharan Singh Bains, President of the Gurudwara, praised the initiative for balancing Sikh principles with safety needs. The workshop’s success highlighted the importance of such training and paved the way for future collaborations between UNITED SIKHS and other Gurudwaras, setting the stage for nationwide efforts to improve emergency preparedness within the Sikh community.