The Board of Directors and staff of the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center released this statement today in response to the shooting at the Sikh Temple in Oak Creek:

"(We express) our deep concern and support for the Sikh community of metro Milwaukee at this moment of crisis.

"Early reports from the scene suggest that the shooters' motives may have been based on religious or racial / ethnic bias. As Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people and allies – members of a community which also is a frequent target of hate crimes and violence – we know that when acts of hate-based violence occur, the impact is felt across the entire community. We stand in solidarity with the Sikh community and all groups targeted by hate crimes and discrimination.

"Regardless of the motives of the assailant(s), we send our thoughts and prayers to the victims, their families, and the entire Sikh community."