Buddhist Temple Sues Fremont, Alleging Racial Discrimination

FREMONT, CA — A Buddhist temple has filed a civil rights lawsuit against the city of Fremont, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. The suit alleges retaliation, invasion of privacy and racial discrimination based on religion and race.

The temple, nestled in the Fremont hills, serves as a retreat and place for community members to gather and pray. But Fremont city officials have argued that the temple is an illegal use of the property and that some of the structures do not meet city building codes.

According to the suit filed by the temple, armed police, some clad in riot gear, and a canine unit were arrived at the temple under city orders, ordering them to demolish three buildings.

"It’s disheartening to learn that a claim is being filed against the city," Geneva Bosques, a spokesperson for Fremont, said in a statement. "We are a community that celebrates our diversity and we are proud to have one of the largest Asian populations in the Bay Area."

Read more from the San Francisco Chronicle: Fremont may tear down a Buddhist temple. A civil rights lawyer says: 'They don't want Asians'