Department of Justice Letter to Sodhi Family
September 20, 2001
Dear Family of Balbir Singh Sodhi:
On behalf of the Attorney General of the United States, I offer my deep and heartfelt condolences regarding the death of your loved one, Balbir Singh Sodhi. I know that this loss is a source of tremendous suffering and grief. Your loss, and the circumstances in which it occurred, are a tragedy for our country.
America derives great strength from the rich diversity of its people. Our differences do not diminish us, but rather are an enduring and endearing feature of our nationhood. When Americans, our guests, friends, or welcome visitors are threatened or assaulted because of their race, religion or ethnicity, it undermines the core principles upon which our nation is grounded, and tears at the moral fabric that binds us together. The vast majority of our people understand that we thrive when we embrace our diversity. Unfortunately, a small minority have chosen to respond to the events of September 11 with senseless violence of their own. This cannot, and will not be tolerated in a free and diverse society, one which the rule of law, decency, and human dignity are cherished values.
Although nothing can fully compensate for your loss, I assure you that the federal government - working cooperatively with state and local authorities - will do everything in its power to ensure that justice is done in this instance. If we are successful in this effort, Balbir Singh Sodhi’s death will send a powerful message that violence, especially violence motivated by racial, ethnic, or religious hatred will not go unpunished.
Once again, I extend my sincere condolences and sympathy for your loss, and wish you God’s comfort and peace.
Sincerely,
Assistant Attorney General
Civil Rights Division
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