Just days ahead of Monday’s one year anniversary of the massacre at the Sikh Temple in Wisconsin that left 7 dead including the gunman, federal authorities confirmed they would begin tracking hate crimes against Sikhs, Hindus and five other groups, according to the Times of India.
Hate crimes against Arabs, Buddhists, Mormons, Jehovah’s Witnesses and Orthodox Christians will also be tracked.
“It will empower us to better enforce relevant laws to protect everyone in this country. And it is emblematic of our unwavering resolve to prevent and seek justice for acts of hate and terror,” Attorney General Eric Holder said.
The Justice Department also announced a $500,000 grant to continue to pay for mental health services in the wake of the tragedy at Oak Creek.
More on that in the Times of India.