FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 10, 2025
Contact: media@saldef.org
SALDEF Celebrates Passage of SB 509 in the California State Assembly, Urges Senate and Governor to Act Swiftly
Sacramento, CA — SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) celebrates the passage of SB 509 through the California State Assembly. This landmark vote marks a decisive step forward in California’s commitment to protect its residents from transnational repression and to strengthen civil rights for all.
As part of a broad and inclusive coalition, SALDEF helped strengthen this effort by mobilizing Sikh voices and extending our reach beyond the Sikh community. We brought together non‑Sikh partners and Californians impacted by transnational repression to ensure that this legislation reflects collective concerns and shared values. We are grateful to Senator Anna Caballero for her leadership in introducing SB 509 and her unwavering commitment to protecting California’s vulnerable communities. We also thank Assemblymember Jasmeet Bains for her strong support and advocacy, which were critical in securing passage through the Assembly. Their dedication helped advance this vital measure that equips law enforcement with the tools to recognize and respond to transnational repression perpetrated by foreign governments.
“The passage of SB 509 is more than a legislative milestone; it marks a strategic inflection point for equity and justice. SALDEF is proud to have catalyzed a coalition that spans Sikh Americans, allied organizations, and directly affected Californians, demonstrating how diverse communities coming together can translate shared concern into meaningful policy,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “As this bill moves forward, our focus must shift to ensuring its implementation delivers concrete, lasting protections, not mere symbolism.”
As SB 509 awaits the Senate’s consideration, SALDEF calls on the Senate to approve the amended bill without delay and on Governor Gavin Newsom to sign it into law promptly. Time is of the essence for safeguarding our communities from transnational threats and reinforcing California’s role as a national leader in civil rights protections.
While we celebrate this legislative success, our work continues. SALDEF remains committed to engaging our community, educating law enforcement, and uniting with coalition partners to ensure SB 509 becomes not just an act on paper, but a framework for real-world impact.
About SALDEF
Founded in 1996, the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) is the oldest Sikh American civil rights organization. SALDEF’s mission is to protect the civil rights of Sikh Americans and ensure a national voice for our community through advocacy, education, and leadership development.