Congressman John Garamendi (D-Fairfield, CA) issued the following statement in response to the horrific shooting in Oak Creek, Wisconsin:

"My thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this heart wrenching attack and their grieving family members. The attack in Wisconsin against the Sikh community was terrorism on American soil, and I strongly condemn it.

"I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Sikh community. The community has suffered horrifying losses in recent years due to vicious hate crimes. Just last year, two Sikh men in Elk Grove were murdered simply walking down the street for no reason except that they wore turbans.

"All Americans – and especially public officials – must stand up against hate and racism. Everyone in America must be able to live their life free from the fear that that their religion, their race, or their clothing would single them out for attack."