Diversity Council Supports Local Buddhist Community
We at the Diversity Council were saddened to hear about the recent incidents of vandalism and harassment at the local Buddhist temple—smashed lights, torn up flowers, and obscenities shouted at the monks.
These incidents are especially distressing because many of the local Buddhists fled from Cambodia, where they suffered extreme persecution under a Marxist regime. The refugees came to Rochester looking for a place where they could raise their families in safety.
And Rochester has a reputation as a safe, family-friendly town. But for whose families? A spike in racially and religiously motivated crimes over the past year brought us to the attention of the FBI. When teenagers spit on worshippers leaving the mosque and Somalis are beaten in back alleys, the reputation of our town takes a beating as well.
It’s up to each one of us to determine the future of our home town. An outpouring of assistance and support for the Buddhists confirms that the majority of Rochester residents want our community to be welcoming and safe for everyone.
A culture of acceptance is becoming increasingly important as all statistics and predictions point to an upcoming workforce shortage. This labor shortage suggests that immigrants and refugees moving to our area will play an important role in maintaining the economic vitality of the region.
So please speak out against hateful incidents of harassment such as those that took place at the Buddhist temple, and do your part to promote understanding, respect, and inclusion of for all our fellow residents, regardless of their color or creed.
One way you can show your support for an inclusive and welcoming community is to join the Diversity Council.
Diversity . . . it’s all about respect!
