SALDEF Presents: Sikhs in Storytelling

Join us for the Second Annual Sikhs in Storytelling hosted by SALDEF!

On May 11, 2025, we’re bringing together an incredible lineup of community leaders, creatives, entertainers, and artists for a day of workshops, panels, performances, and fireside chats — all designed to amplify Sikh voices and elevate the narratives of our community.

This year’s event will highlight the powerful stories of Sikh Americans from the Midwest, and feature the talented individuals and groups shaping the future of our community’s representation through art, entertainment, and culture.

To learn more, please visit www.saldef.org/sikhsinstorytelling.

Sikhs in Storytelling – A Smash Hit!

Our Sikhs in Storytelling event in New York City was an unforgettable evening with over 100 attendees in person and a whopping 500+ tuning in on the livestream!

The impact of your support was evident in the energy and enthusiasm that filled the room. Stories were shared, connections were made, and a powerful message of resilience and pride was amplified.

The evening unfolded as a vibrant tapestry of Sikh American experiences. A captivating panel discussion titled Storytelling for a New Era, delved into the heart of Sikh identity in the modern world.

Esteemed panelists Nardeep Khurmi, Nav the Poet, Ravjot Mehek Singh, Vishavjit Singh, and Anoopreet Kaur Rehncy shared their personal journeys and powerful voices, sparking thought-provoking discussions on representation, overcoming media stereotypes, and the vital role of storytelling in shaping a more inclusive future.

Next, the event took a powerful turn with From Margins to Mainstage: Sikh Women Reimagine Their Power, an interactive session that had the audience buzzing.

The brilliant writers behind the book Kaurs Reimagine: Meeta Kaur, Sonia Kaur, and Saranjit Banga took center stage, led by the ever-inspiring SALDEF Board Member, Juspreet Kaur.

Together, they wove a tapestry of captivating stories featuring Sikh women who shattered expectations and carved their own paths to strength and leadership. It was a session that left everyone feeling empowered and ready to embrace their own unique experiences.

Shattering the Glass Ceiling in Media and Journalism, brought together this a powerhouse group of women: Brahmjot Kaur, Harmeet Kaur, Asees K. Singh, and Sona Simran Kaur.

Their stories weren’t just about navigating a competitive field, they offered a refreshing perspective on how to tell Sikh stories in the media.

From personal anecdotes to practical advice on news cycles, this panel was a breath of fresh air, leaving the audience eager to see more diverse voices shaping the media landscape.

Weaving a fascinating thread through our Storytelling for Change panel was the unlikely historical figure, Bhagat Singh Thind.

Panelists Nardeep Khurmi, Anoopreet Kaur Rehncy, Harjus Singh, Vishavjit Singh, and Joy Kanwar, despite their diverse backgrounds and experiences, all connected to Thind’s legacy of resilience and fighting for justice.

This panel also sparked a powerful conversation about how storytelling can empower our community to advocate for a more just and equitable world, leaving a lasting impression on our engaged audience members.

Beyond Words: Performances that Stirred the Soul

From captivating musical performances to a thought-provoking spoken word session, the evening pulsed with the vibrant energy of Sikh American creativity.

Manav Singh, Unnat Singh & Dashmesh Singh’s captivating rendition of Raag Gond (the 17th Raag in the sacred Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji) set the perfect tone for an evening filled with unforgettable stories and vibrant culture.

Gurpreet Sarin‘s stirring vocals captivated the audience, while Nav the Poet‘s spoken word piece delivered a powerful message that resonated deeply with the attendees.

These diverse performances showcased the rich tapestry of Sikh American artistry and left a lasting impression on all who witnessed them.

Your continued support makes events like this possible.

The success of “Sikhs in Storytelling” wouldn’t have been possible without your support, and the support of our sponsors, The Asian American Foundation and Comcast.

Your contribution allows us to continue amplifying Sikh American voices and challenging the one-dimensional narratives prevalent in society.

Thank you once again for your unwavering support. Together, we are building a brighter future for the Sikh American community.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

April 25, 2024

Contact: Amrita Kular | SALDEF Director of Communications, (202) 393-2700, media@saldef.org

SALDEF PRESENTS “Sikhs in Storytelling” for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in NYC

In a first of its kind event, Sikhs in Storytelling will gather world-renowned creatives to reignite the Sikh tradition of storytelling and reimagine mainstream narratives. 

New York, NY – This Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM), SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) is proud to present Sikhs in Storytelling, a captivating event that shatters stereotypes and celebrates the vibrant narratives of Sikh Americans.

This unforgettable evening, taking place on May 11 at 3 PM at Five Angels Theatre in New York City, will bring together a powerhouse lineup of CNN journalists, reporters, filmmakers, and social media influencers who are shaping the media landscape.

A Platform for Amplifying Sikh Voices

“Sikhs in Storytelling” offers a unique platform to showcase the diverse and impactful contributions of Sikhs in the media industry. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the journeys of these prominent figures, their creative processes, and how they are breaking barriers and fostering greater understanding of the Sikh community.

The event will also feature cultural performances, a networking session and notable speakers such as: 

  • Brahmjot Kaur, Entertainment Reporter NBC News and E! News Online 
  • Nardeep Khurmi, Award-Winning Actor, Writer, Director of the Film ‘Land of Gold’ on HBO Max
  • Harmeet Kaur, CNN Culture Writer
  • Nav the Poet, Spoken Word Poet, Videographer, Content Creator
  • Vish Singh, Award-Winning Animator, Filmmaker, Cartoonist

WHO: SALDEF and World Renowned Sikh Creatives

WHAT: Sikh storytellers and creatives come together in a first of its kind community event to reimagine mainstream narratives surrounding Sikh Amerians. For more information, please visit www.saldef.org/sikhsinstorytelling

WHEN: May 11, 2024 3PM-8PM 

WHERE: Five Angels Theater 789, 10th Avenue, New York, NY 10019

About SALDEF:

SALDEF (The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) is the nation’s oldest Sikh American civil rights and advocacy organization. Based in Washington D.C., SALDEF works to build Sikh American capacity through education, fostering community, and civic engagement. By engaging with federal and state leaders, publishing critical policy reports, placing Sikh Americans in government and advocacy internships across the nation, and more, SALDEF is paving a brighter path for future generations.

Sikhs in Storytelling

Join SALDEF for Sikhs in Storytelling – a night full of engaging discussions, thoughtful panels, and captivating performances all challenging the one-dimensional Sikh American narratives in the mainstream media.

To Purchase Tickets, Please Click Here

SEVA Documentary Premiers on WORLD

Get ready to be inspired! We are writing to share the exciting news about the premiere of the documentary film, “SEVA,” on WORLD. This powerful film captures the Sikh community’s remarkable response to the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing the essence of seva (selfless service) during an unprecedented time of crisis.

Witnessing the dedication and generosity of the Sikh community during one of humanity’s most challenging periods is truly inspiring. We see how they opened their doors and hearts to those in need, providing essential services and embodying the true spirit of seva.

“SEVA” is more than just a documentary; it’s a testament to the transformative power of the SikhLEAD internship program. Through the SikhLEAD program, SALDEF empowers young Sikh leaders to make a positive impact on their communities. Through hands-on experience and mentorship, SikhLEAD equips interns with the skills and knowledge to address pressing issues and create lasting change.

The creation of “SEVA” is a shining example of the program’s impact. In collaboration with Nishkam TV, the 2021 SikhLEAD class took the initiative to document the inspiring stories of countless Sikh volunteers who dedicated themselves to serving others during the pandemic.

Under the insightful guidance of Emmy Award Winner Harbaldeep Singh, these young minds researched, wrote, and directed this moving film, leaving an indelible mark on the world. The team – Raunaq Singh Mokha, Siddakk Singh, Aekem Singh, Jaskeerat Singh, Mansa Kaur, Kiren Bagga, Arman Dhillon, Gurshaan Sidhu, Mehtab Singh, Muntara Singh, Savleen Singh, Simar Kaur Soni, Ujjal Bathla, and Vineet Dhillon – is proof of what young, passionate minds can achieve.

We encourage you to watch “SEVA” on World Channel today and witness firsthand the transformative power of selfless service. You can also learn more about the SikhLEAD program and support its mission by visiting our website www.saldef.org/sikhlead

How you can show your support:

Join us in this celebration of youth, creativity, and the power of storytelling.  Let’s come together to celebrate the power of SEVA and inspire others to embrace the spirit of selfless service.

Click here to watch ‘SEVA’