Source: New England Sikh Study Circle Press Release

On September 12, 2001, the New England Sikh Study Circle issued a press release regarding the attacks on the U.S. "The Sikh American Community of Boston would like to express our deep pain and shock about the horrific attack on the people and property of the United States." The press release continues, "Sikhs, with their turbans and beards, might be mistaken for associates of certain well-known terrorist leaders...In the past 36 hours since the attack on America began, there have been confirmed reports of Sikhs being verbally and physically abused. Many Sikhs are now living in fear." The press release asks for greater public awareness, offers assistance, and concludes by noting that the local gurdwara (Sikh place of worship) will be holding a special service this weekend to pray for the victims of terrorism and their families.