Sikhs across the country and here in Bakersfield are mourning the loss of six people shot and killed at a temple in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.
Local Sikh members heal together at a temple in southwest Bakersfield following this weekend's shooting.
"It is very shocking. The whole community is saddened. It is not a problem for the Sikh community, but for the whole nation," said Nazar Kooner, Sikh community leader.
Even during our interview, Sikh community leader, Nazar Kooner, surrounded himself with fellow members, a show of support and solidarity for the families of the victims in Wisconsin killed inside their place of worship.
"What can be the safest place? God's home. And, when you are remembering God, someone comes in and kills you, what you feel?," said Kooner.
It's sadness that has spread across Bakersfield's Sikh community. There are more than 35,000 Sikhs living here locally.
Typically a colorful and joyous group, Sikh members say after the latest shooting, they have reason to be on edge.
"Cause it makes everyone a little nervous in our community, and that's kind of sad," said Manjeet Riar, Sikh community member.
Manjeet Riar remembers after 9/11, Sikhs were confused with Muslims because of the way they dress. Four days after the terror attack, a Sikh was murdered in retaliation.
Fears that this weekend's shootings could spark more violence, the Sikh Cultural Society in New York now has guards.
There are no such security measures at temples here, but there is a push for better community understanding.
"For the Sikh religion, covering your head is a mark of respect. But, if you don't know that and all you see is a turbine and you then associate it with extremism, that's where those horrible barriers come up," said Riar.
"I think we should go to each other's temples like I go to churches. I read Bible myself," added Kooner. "Whole America is worried. We are worried. This is a sickness."
The cure, according to members, is education. Learning to accept the differences and live together - ending any future hate crimes and finding tolerance.
"I think that's really where the community drive has to be, is for people to begin to understand each other and understand each other's ways so that you have less fear, you have less biased, and I think that goes a long way," said Riar.
"All we can say is bless those souls. God bless America," said Kooner.
