Sikh community will overcome Wisconsin tragedy: Congressman

Calling the Wisconsin Gurdwara shooting a "dastardly deed", a US lawmaker today hoped the Sikh community in the country would be able to overcome the tragedy, and vowed to support them in this endeavour.

"The Sikh community will overcome this tragedy and we as a country will support them because what impacts them directly impacts all indirectly," Congressman Al Green from Texas said on the floor of the US House of Representatives.

He said he stood in solidarity with the families as well as the victims of the Sikh Temple shooting of August 5, Green said the violence was horrific at a place where people had gathered with families and neighbours to worship peacefully.

"Observation and practice of one's religion should be inviolate, but on that fateful Sunday, it was so heinously violated. While what causes someone to do such a dastardly deed will remain a mystery to all, faith will console where reason cannot," he said.

"We can find some solace in the heroism displayed by those in the line of fire, who as ordinary citizens and first- responders risked their lives and limbs to protect others," Green said.

The shooter, blinded by ignorance and hate, underestimated the strength and resolve of the Sikh community, he said.

"Upon hearing of the shooting, Sikh congregations around the country dedicated their services to the victims of the shooting," Congressman Green said on the House floor.