OPSEU/SEFPO stands in solidarity with the Sikh community in the wake of the death of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside the Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Surrey, B.C. – a Sikh temple. We echo the federal NDP’s calls for a public inquiry on the circumstances surrounding the death. We hope that a public inquiry will move us closer to the truth and to achieving justice for Hardeep.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was an outspoken activist, who fearlessly called out the Modi government. Dissent is a key function of a healthy and vibrant democracy – no one should die for speaking out against a government. We all have a duty to speak out against human rights abuses – whether they are happening here or around the world.
As a proud trade union, OPSEU/SEFPO fights hard to break down barriers, and stand up to injustice. We believe that unions have a duty to create inclusive places for our members – not just in their workplaces but in their communities too. Part of that is fighting for justice alongside equity-deserving groups, demanding the truth, and standing up for what’s right. That is all Hardeep Singh Nijjar was guilty of – demanding justice.
Everybody deserves to feel safe, and this act has sent shockwaves of fear through Canada’s Sikh community. We’re committed to fighting for safety and dignity for all. We hope the pursuit for truth will bring comfort and justice to the community.
With love and solidarity,
JP Hornick and Laurie Nancekivell