Summary
Yogi Bhajan was the founder of the 3HO-Kundalini Yoga global community and established Sikh Dharma in the West, uplifting many thousands with a spiritually enriched way of life. These same global communities have been deeply affected by recent reports of harm by Yogi Bhajan that have come forward since early 2020.
At that time, An Olive Branch (AOB) was hired to assess both reports of harm by Yogi Bhajan and statements of support about Yogi Bhajan. Their report (below) was released in 2020. We do not seek to erase the extensive good Yogi Bhajan fostered, yet we also acknowledge the harmful experiences that have been shared.
The years since then have been a time of painful but necessary growth for our organizations and communities/sangats everywhere.
EPS understands there are many strong and differing perspectives around these issues. We encourage all to respect viewpoints different from their own and to refrain from slander or negativity expressed against those who experienced harm by Yogi Bhajan, or those who continue to esteem Yogi Bhajan, his teachings, and his legacy.
In our far-reaching global community, there is a place for all perspectives and respectful communication as we seek common ground from where we can build a better future, and our communities can continue and flourish for future generations.
Translations of the cover letter are available below:
An Olive Branch Report
The report is a difficult document to read. Please be aware that the report contains graphic descriptions of sexual misconduct and strong language that may trigger you as a reader. If reading the report triggers strong reactions of grief and/or trauma for you, we encourage you to find local resources to support you in processing those emotions.
Translation of the full report is provided below in Spanish, German, Russian, French, Portuguese, and Italian:
Our Commitment to Safety
The Siri Singh Sahib Corporation and all of its affiliated organizations stand united against abuse of any type. We are committed to a safe environment for everyone who participates in any of our activities.
Community Support Resources:
Office of Ethics and Professional Standards
A formal channel for making reports about concerns or unethical behavior is the Office of Ethics and Professional Standards. Its secure and confidential reporting system includes the EPS Complaint Hotline 1-888-805-4888 (USA & Canada, with operators available in every language) and an online Complaint Webform (Available everywhere with the form in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. More languages to come). Also see File a Complaint.
Independent Healing and Reparations Program
As a continuation of our commitment to owning the harm that has been described and to providing resources to help those in need, the SSSC announced an Independent Healing and Reparations Program in April 2022. To learn more about this program, click here.
