Independent Lens Season 9 Episode 21 A Dream in Doubt

In the season 9 episode 21 of Independent Lens titled A Dream in Doubt, viewers are taken on a journey of self-discovery and the impact of hate crimes on one particular community.

The episode tells the story of Rana Singh Sodhi, an immigrant from India who moved to the US in the pursuit of the American Dream. Rana came to the US with his wife and two sons and settled in a quiet suburb in Arizona. He worked hard and saved enough to open a family owned convenience store. It was his vision of the American Dream.

However, everything changed for Rana and his family after the 9/11 attack. On September 15, 2001, his eldest brother Balbir was shot dead in front of their store. The shooter was an individual who was motivated by hatred towards anyone he perceived as Muslim. Despite being a Sikh, Balbir was mistaken for a Muslim due to his turban and beard. The incident rocked Rana and his family to the core.

The episode showcases how the incident affected the Sodhi family and the community at large. It explores how the fear and hatred perpetrated by the attack caused a ripple effect that engendered further violence and hate crimes against innocent individuals. However, the Sodhi family refused to be cowed by hate and chose to fight back in their own way.

Through Rana's grief and the trauma of the incident, he found his calling to bring about social change through community involvement. He went out of his way to visit schools and talk to children about the importance of embracing diversity and tolerance. He also helped establish the Arizona Sikh Gurdwara, a place of worship which has become a sanctuary for people of all faiths.

The episode also features interviews with members of the Sikh community and other minorities who have been victims of hate crimes, including attempts to run them over at gas stations and convenience stores. The episode highlights the need for unity and tolerance and calls for an end to hate crimes and discrimination against individuals based on their religious or cultural beliefs.

A Dream in Doubt is a poignant reminder of the importance of acceptance, diversity, and empathy towards others. It showcases one man's journey from trauma to hope, and the impact one person can make in creating a more peaceful and inclusive society. The episode will leave viewers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the ongoing struggle to fight hate and promote tolerance and inclusion in our communities.