The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) has expressed deep concern over the latest FBI data indicating a sharp rise in hate crimes across the United States. The association noted that hate incidents targeting Sikhs, Muslims, Jews, and other communities have shown alarming growth over the past five years, reflecting an urgent need for stronger national action.
NAPA’s Executive Director, Satnam Singh Chahal, said that the Sikh community, which has always contributed positively to American society, continues to face violence and discrimination simply because of its visible identity. He added that each hate crime victim represents a human tragedy that cannot be reduced to a statistic. “When anyone is attacked for their race, faith, or appearance, it is not just an attack on one person—it is an attack on America’s core values,” Chahal said.
NAPA has urged the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI to strengthen cultural sensitivity programs and improve reporting mechanisms for hate crimes, especially to ensure the participation of immigrant communities. The association also called for the creation of a federal task force to monitor and coordinate efforts to combat religious and cultural bias nationwide.
“Education, understanding, and unity must be the guiding principles in defeating hate,” Chahal emphasised. “Our message is clear—America’s diversity is its strength, and every act of hate weakens that foundation. We must all stand together to preserve the principles of equality and mutual respect that define this nation.”