Hindu leaders condemn vandalizing Hindu temple in Kent, Washington

Washington, DC: Hindu American leaders forcefully condemned the vandalism of a Hindu temple in Kent, Washington. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning on February 27, closely follows the vandalism of another Washington temple two weeks ago. The vandals spray painted the word “fear” on the walls of the Sanatan Dharma Temple, in addition to breaking 7-8 windows. 

“The quick frequency of the two temple attacks is deeply troubling,” said Harsh Voruganti, Associate Director of Government Relations. “We are particularly disturbed by the attempt to terrorize the community through the graffiti of the word ‘fear.’” 

The Sanatan Dharma Temple and Cultural Center has been targeted for attacks in the past. HAF has been in close contact with temple leaders, who estimate that temple property has been damaged at least twice a year since their location was changed to Kent in 2013.

Our community is deeply hurt with [the] intensity of [the] damage but we all stand united together,” stated the Temple’s officials.

In October 2014, HAF released A Guide to Temple Safety and Security for Hindu American houses of worship and community centers after similar incidents of vandalism took place in Loudoun County, Virginia and in Monroe, Georgia last year. HAF has continuously encouraged community members across the country to remain vigilant with their temple’s security in order to prevent hate violence, and to report crimes immediately if and when they do occur. As of January 1, 2015, the Department of Justice ordered all crime reporting forms to include the category anti-Hindu under the possible motives of hate crimes. 

HAF previously published Hyperlink to Hinduphobia: Online Hatred, Extremism, and Bigotry Against Hindus to highlight online prejudice against Hindus.