Ken Saragosa Update



On Wednesday, February 11th, Ken Saragosa [an SGI-USA national-level youth
advisor, and gay man] was assaulted in Garden Grove [California], while
walking to his car in what appears to be a robbery/hate crime. He sustained
fractures to his upper jaw, nose and cheekbone. Fortunately, his injuries
are not serious and his doctors expect him to make a full recovery. Ken
underwent surgery on Tuesday, February 17th. The surgery was a success. His
doctors are amazed at how quickly his swelling is subsiding and how well he
is recovering. Ken will recuperate for the next week at his father's home in
Mexico, however, he is anxious to return to work as soon as possible.

Ken wishes to express his great appreciation for the outpouring of support
he has received. He said that while an attack like the one he experienced is
intended to degrade and scare, it has actually served as the catalyst for
him to realize how much he cherishes his life and the people around him. He
also said that the incident has strengthened his determination to fight for
justice, especially in Garden Grove where he now practices.

Ken also asks that each of us be mindful of the potential for violence in
our daily lives, and to take the necessary steps to ensure our safety.

Kens example of courage and extraordinary sense of mission is a moving
inspiration for each of us. Let us send Ken our daimoku for a speedy and
full recovery and let us use this incident to reaffirm our commitment to
transform our society through the compassion of the Daishonins Buddhism. If
you would like to send Ken a message, please feel free to email him at kens@soka.edu

Sincerely, Orange County Region Leaders, 2/20/04





Posted: Sun - February 22, 2004 at 12:41 AM      

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