On June 26, SALDEF conducted a Know Your Rights forum for the Sikh American community of Fresno, CA. The forum, attended by over 150 community members, allowed the sangat to engage with and voice their concerns to representatives of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The purpose of SALDEF’s Know Your Rights forums is to (1) educate community members about their rights related to bias or harassment in the workplace, schools, and with law enforcement (2) introduce community members to agencies and groups that can address complaints, incidents, or issues. Given the recent hate crimes against Sikh Americans in California (see links below), members of the Fresno community expressed concern about racially motivated violence to FBI Supervisory Special Agent, Harriet Dugal. “The FBI wants the Sikh American community to know that these crimes are not tolerated and investigations are underway,” stated Agent Dugal. READ MORE: Attack of Sikh American Cab Driver in Sacramento READ MORE: Two Elderly Sikh American Men Shot in Elk Grove 
Melissa Barrios, Director of the EEOC Fresno office, spoke about the various types of workplace discrimination that can occur to ensure the community is vigilant about recognizing and reporting such incidents. “One of the most important things that can happen when workplace related discrimination occurs is reporting the incident or situation. The EEOC protects individuals against employer retaliation and can guarantee anonymity,” stated Ms. Barrios. Both representatives also discussed employment opportunities and career development paths at their respective agencies, encouraging all eligible applicants to apply. SALDEF would like to thank the agencies and representatives, Fresno sangat members, and the management of Gurdwara Nanak Prakash for making this event successful. The next Know Your Rights forum in Fresno, CA will include representatives from the Fresno Police Department and the Fresno County School Board to address issues of investigations and school related bullying issues. Read about recently held Know Your Rights forums in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. If you would like SALDEF to conduct a Know Your Rights forum in your community, please contact us.
