On August 5, 2012, six people were gunned down by a white supremacist at a Sikh temple in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, including Satwant Singh Kaleka, the temple’s president. In the aftermath of the shooting, Singh Kaleka’s son, Pardeep, reached out to Arno Michaelis, a former white supremacist-turned-activist, to help him find answers amidst his confusion and heartbreak. Out of this meeting, Serve 2 Unite was born.
The organization works primarily with Milwaukee-based schools, bringing together students of all backgrounds to collaborate on art projects and activities, as well as participate in open discussions. Students are connected with Serve 2 Unite’s global mentors, a network of peace activists who have either survived genocide, been involved in gangs or previously promoted radical ideologies. These international peacemakers share a message of inclusivity and the importance of working together, no matter who you are or what your background.
Watch the video above to learn more about the unlikely bond between Singh Kaleka and Michaelis, and how Serve 2 Unite furthers their mission of mutual respect and trust among all people, all over the world.

Homepage photo by Jayrol San Jose.