They See Blue Condemns Alleged Plot to Massacre Hindu Worshippers: “We Cannot Wait for a Funeral to Take Hate Seriously”
South Asian American organization calls for stronger protections for communities targeted by hate, and an unequivocal rejection of white supremacy
PRESS RELEASES
October 15, 2026 — They See Blue®, a grassroots organization mobilizing South Asian Americans to participate in the democratic process, today condemned the alleged plot by a white supremacist to carry out a mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Aurora, Illinois. It’s a chilling reminder that one of our most fundamental freedoms is being threatened: the right to live, gather, and worship without fear.
Authorities have arrested a 19-year-old Illinois man, Alexandros Paporakis, in connection with the alleged plot. According to reports, investigators uncovered material expressing white supremacist views and threats of violence against Indian people. The investigation is ongoing.
“We should not have to wait for a Hindu temple to become a crime scene, for families to bury their loved ones, or for another community to endure a massacre before we take anti-Indian hatred and white supremacy seriously,” said Rajiv Bhateja, co-founder of They See Blue.
“We are Americans, and our families, places of worship, and communities deserve the same security and dignity afforded to everyone else. Anyone who attacks that principle, whether through violence or through the normalization of racial hatred, must be held to account. We need meaningful prevention, and leaders willing to confront this poison wherever it appears.”
They See Blue® calls on elected officials and candidates at every level of government to reject white supremacy and anti-Indian racism unequivocally, regardless of political affiliation. Public leaders must recognize that rhetoric portraying entire communities as threats or outsiders can deepen divisions and embolden those who already harbor extremist beliefs.
About They See Blue
Founded in 2018 by four South Asian Americans, They See Blue® has grown to more than 6,000 members with 19 grassroots chapters nationwide. As a registered Section 527 all-volunteer organization, They See Blue® seeks to engage and increase the participation of South Asian Americans in the political process of our great country and to help elect Democrats. For more information, see: https://theyseeblue.org
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