City of Fresno in California Recognizes 1984 anti-Sikh Violence as “Genocide”

FRESNO : After many hurdles, the resolution to recognize 1984 anti-Sikh massacres in India as a genocide was finally officially approved by the Fresno City Council today, September 1, 2016. 5 out of 7 council members voted in approval, while 2 abstained. Over 500 Sikhs were in attendance and waited patiently for the council members to vote.Fresno is the fifth largest city by population in California and is home to over 70,000 Sikhs. City of Fresno has recognized the Sikh genocide after similar resolutions were passed in Kerman, Bakersfield and San Joaquin.A number of local Sikhs and non-Sikhs spoke before the council members officially voted. Speakers included local Sikh activists and youth. Parminder Singh, a local businessmen, said, “We appreciate everyone for coming here today, especially the role played by the youth is highly appreciable. We have a large gathering here today as this is something very important to us.”Raj Singh, a local youth activist said, “Fresno is the capital of this area. Whatever happens here is followed across the World and hence it is important that we pass this resolution today. Recognition of this resolution is very important as the wounds inflicted during 1984 are still fresh. We all wish to state that we are all here fighting for human rights, we are not against any community.”Council Member Oliver Baines said, “There is a lot that happened behind the scenes. A lot of education had to take place. I was one of those who needed to be educated on the atrocities that happened in 1984. But when I was educated, I was horrified. I am happy to be able to support this resolution today.”The resolution was earlier scheduled to be announced on January 14, however, the Fresno City Council took back the proposal after it was compelled by the Indian Consul General from San Francisco. The proposal was consequently taken back by Fresno city council member Clint Olivier on June 23. Fresno Bee correspondent Andrew Castillo reported that the Indian consul of San Francisco met with Fresno city council members and convinced them that the proposal recognizing Sikh massacres as a genocide was “inaccurate and one-sided”.