We’re One Step Closer: Send a Letter to your State Senator!

We’re One Step Closer (SB 509): Send a Letter to your State Senator!

Thanks to your continued advocacy and support, SB 509 is headed to a full vote on the California Senate Floor in the coming days — a major milestone in the ongoing effort to protect diaspora communities, including Sikh Americans, from transnational repression.

SB 509 provides training and resources to law enforcement in the state of California on the topic and threats of transnational repression by foreign actors.

Just yesterday, SALDEF stood alongside community leaders in Sacramento for a legislative advocacy day, meeting directly with state legislators to champion SB 509. Together with our coalition partners, we made a strong case for the bill’s potential to establish essential protections and frameworks to confront transnational repression.

Why is this bill important? SB 509 would:

  • Create a legal definition of transnational repression in California.
  • Authorize California officials, such as the Attorney General and law enforcement, to investigate and act when individuals in California are being harassed or threatened by foreign actors; helping ensure that those targeted by transnational repression are not left vulnerable or isolated.
  • Protect the sovereignty and freedom of speech of Americans

If you live in California, Take Action Now: Click Here to Urge Your State Senator to Vote YES on SB 509.

Transnational repression poses a serious threat to the freedoms we all hold dear. With your support, SALDEF is helping lead the charge — mobilizing communities, engaging lawmakers, and shaping bold policy like SB 509 to protect civil liberties across California and beyond.

Now, we need your voice once more. Help us ensure SB 509 becomes law and sets a national precedent. Take action today — and triple your impact by sharing this message with 3 friends and family in California.

Together, we can turn advocacy into action and safeguard the rights of our communities for generations to come.

For Immediate Release
Contact: amrita.kular@saldef.org
Monday, April 7, 2025

SALDEF Statement on the Confirmation of Harmeet Dhillon 

WASHINGTON, DC — The U.S. Senate confirmed Harmeet Kaur Dhilllon, a prominent Sikh American attorney, as the next  Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Department of Justice. 

The Civil Rights Division plays a critical role in upholding the constitutional protections of all individuals, enforcing federal anti-discrimination laws, and ensuring that marginalized communities are safeguarded from injustice. 

“This position requires a steadfast, impartial commitment to upholding the rights of all communities,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education (SALDEF). “We look forward to continuing our work to advance the civil and constitutional rights of all Americans.”

For Immediate Release

February 20th, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

SALDEF Champions SB 509: Protecting Communities Against Transnational Repression

Sacramento, CA — SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense & Education Fund) extends our gratitude to California State Senator Anna M. Caballero (D-14) for introducing SB 509 in the 2025-26 legislative session.

This bill takes a crucial first step in combating transnational repression faced by diasporic communities worldwide, including Sikh Americans, and ensuring the protection of American sovereignty and freedom of speech. It not only defines transnational repression as a grave human rights violation from which Californians must be protected, but it also mandates training for state and local law enforcement to recognize and respond to these violations effectively.

During the 2023-24 legislative session, SALDEF and partners, including the Jakara Movement, the American Sikh Caucus Committee, and the Sikh Coalition, collaborated with Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains (D-35) to introduce related legislation, which received unanimous support from the Assembly Committee on Emergency Services following testimony from Assemblymember Bains and SALDEF Board Member Kavneet Singh.

“In the early days of this new California legislative session, Senator Caballero has reignited an important effort with the introduction of SB 509 as we remain committed to combating the ongoing threat of transnational repression,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “If enacted into law, SB 509 will be a validation of our extensive effort to advance policy-based defenses against transnational repression. We will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to champion Senator Caballero’s efforts to establish California as the first U.S. state to formally oppose transnational repression.”

Former SikhLEAD Intern Takes on Hollywood

Jeevin Singh Neelam, a former SikhLEAD intern, recently made waves by appearing in a major role on CBS’s hit TV show S.W.A.T.!

In this insightful interview, we delve into Jeevin’s journey, from his early days as a SikhLEAD participant to his big-screen debut. We also discuss the importance of authentic Sikh representation in media and the role of organizations like SALDEF in empowering young Sikh talent.

How did being cast in this role personally impact you, and what did it mean to see yourself represented on a major platform like CBS?

Being cast in this role is my first “big, professional” role I guess you could say in this industry.

Being able to say I booked a guest star role on a Paramount CBS show is a huge honor and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity. It gives me the confidence to believe that pursuing a career in this industry as an actor is possible, regardless of my visible identity. It also signifies that Hollywood is becoming more and more ready for diversity and hopefully this will only continue to grow.

Can you discuss the process of developing your character?

Playing Raj was an incredible journey for sure, but speaking frankly, I think by the time I got the script it was pretty authentic to Sikh representation.

I think it’s also important to point out that just like any other actor, I am playing a character; my own viewpoints about certain topics don’t necessarily have to replicate those of Raj’s.

How did your experience as a SikhLEAD intern prepare you for this opportunity? Did the skills and knowledge gained through the program contribute to your success?

SikhLEAD was a great internship I had earlier on in college that allowed me to leverage working in a professional setting when interviewing for future internships/jobs. For example, I was able to talk about SikhLEAD in my interviews for HBO where I interned and worked at for the two summers after I interned at SikhLEAD. In this way, the program aided me to get my foot in the door in the entertainment industry.

How does this role contribute to the broader goal of promoting authentic Sikh representation in media? What impact do you hope this will have on the Sikh community and wider society?

I think one inspiring aspect of this whole experience was, as far as I know, this is the first time a Sikh male with turban and beard is the “hero” of a major Hollywood studio production. (obviously I could be mistaken!!). As a kid growing up, it would have been so cool to see a Sikh guy as a hero or even just a character in a show, and I am hoping this leads to more writing/casting of Sikh characters in Hollywood.

What are your hopes for the future of Sikh representation in media? What kind of stories do you want to see told?

I want Sikhs to be portrayed in every way – the hero, the villain, the sexy love interest, the nerdy man behind the camera, etc. Because while Sikhi is often the first identity someone thinks of when they see me, my personality is made up of many different identities and I hope that can be reflected in stories on screen.

 

Feeling inspired by Jeevin’s story? You can follow in his footsteps!

SALDEF’s 2025 SikhLEAD Summer Internship Program Applications are now open. You can click here to learn more and apply.

SikhLEAD internships are tailored to YOUR career interests. Whether you’re a high school student or a post-graduate student, we have opportunities for you.

Watch Jeevin’s full S.W.A.T. episode here on CBS.

For Immediate Release

Date: October 25, 2024

Contact: media@saldef.org

Valadao introduces House Resolution recognizing the Sikh Genocide of 1984

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David G. Valadao (CA-22), co-chair of the Sikh American Congressional Caucus, and Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) introduced a resolution to formally recognize and commemorate the Sikh Genocide of 1984. California is home to the largest Sikh population in the U.S., with the majority residing in the Central Valley.

“Sadly, many Sikhs have been targeted for their religious beliefs throughout history, including during the 1984 genocide,” said Congressman Valadao. “The Central Valley is home to a vibrant Sikh community and I’m proud to stand with them in demanding recognition and accountability for this horrific event in their history. This resolution is a small but important step to commemorate this tragedy and honor the innocent victims who lost their lives while practicing their faith.”

“As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Sikh Genocide, we remember a dark chapter in history that inflicted pain on Sikh families and communities. This is not just a distant tragedy—it hits home for us here in the San Joaquin Valley, where so many of our Sikh neighbors have shared their stories of loss, survival, and resilience. This resolution is more than a symbol — it’s a time to recognize this horrific time that our Sikh community experienced,” said Congressman Costa.

Reps. Valadao and Costa were joined in introduction by Reps. Josh Harder (CA-09), Vince Fong (CA-20), and John Duarte (CA-13).

The resolution is supported by the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, American Sikh Caucus Committee, Ensaaf, Jakara Movement, Sikh Coalition, Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC), and the United Sikhs.

“This resolution is a historic acknowledgment of the deep scars the Sikh genocide of 1984 has left on our community. It not only honors the memory of those we lost but also empowers Sikh Americans and allies who have been fighting for decades to ensure that these atrocities are not forgotten. We are especially grateful to Congressman David Valadao for his unwavering support and for bringing this issue to the forefront of American consciousness. Today, we see a step toward justice and the validation of our truth,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF)

“This resolution marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing quest for justice and truth. The American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, representing Sikh religious institutions across the nation, has long advocated for the recognition of the atrocities committed during the 1984 Sikh Genocide. We thank Congressman Valadao for his courageous leadership and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the stories of our martyrs are preserved, and that justice is pursued relentlessly,” said Gudev Singh, Acting President, American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (AGPC).

“This resolution is a turning point in our community’s decades-long pursuit of justice and recognition. For too long, the horrors of 1984 have been hidden from the global stage. Today, we honor the memory of those who suffered and ensure their voices will never be silenced. We extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman David Valadao for his leadership of the American Sikh Congressional Caucus, and in championing this cause, marking a momentous step toward accountability and healing for Sikh Americans and Sikhs worldwide,” said Dr. Pritpal Singh, Founder, American Sikh Caucus Committee.

“This resolution marks a crucial victory in the battle for truth and justice for the victims of the 1984 Sikh Genocide. It stands as a testament to the resilience of our community, which has sought justice for decades. While we still have a long road ahead in terms of accountability, this first step of recognition in the U.S. House of Representatives gives us hope that justice one day will prevail,” said Sukhman Dhami, Co-Director, Ensaaf

“The introduction of this resolution is not just about acknowledging the past but ensuring that future generations understand the truth about the 1984 Sikh Genocide. For Sikh youth and activists, this is more than a political milestone—it’s a validation of the pain our elders endured and a commitment to never allow history to forget. The Jakara Movement looks forward to working alongside Congressman Valadao to continue shining a light on this dark chapter and to ensure that justice for the victims remains a priority for all,” said Naindeep Singh, Executive Director, Jakara Movement.

“This is the first time a federal resolution has been introduced to recognize the 1984 Sikh Genocide, and it sends a powerful message: the world is watching, and the atrocities committed against Sikhs will not go unnoticed. We are deeply thankful to Congressman David Valadao for his leadership in this effort, and we look forward to building a broad coalition of support to ensure its ultimate passage. Today’s recognition fuels our resolve to continue advocating for justice and accountability,” said Harman Singh, Executive Director, Sikh Coalition.

“The introduction of this resolution is a significant step forward for Sikhs worldwide, especially for those of us who have been tirelessly advocating for the truth to be recognized. The Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast stands united with our brothers and sisters in the continued pursuit of justice for the victims of 1984. This resolution acknowledges not only our pain but our perseverance, and we are grateful to Congressman Valadao for standing with us in this cause,” said Himmat Singh, Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC).

“As a global humanitarian organization, United Sikhs has long championed the cause of justice and human rights for the Sikh community. The introduction of this resolution in the U.S. Congress is a watershed moment for our community’s struggle for truth and justice. It is an acknowledgment that the international community is listening, and it reinforces our collective resolve to ensure that the horrors of 1984 are neither ignored nor repeated. We extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman Valadao for his leadership and solidarity,” said Hardayal Singh, United Sikhs.

Background:

In June 1984, Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi ordered a military assault on Sri Darbar Sahib, a sacred place of worship more commonly known as The Golden Temple. During Operation Blue Star, the Indian Army used heavy artillery and tanks to lay siege on The Golden Temple complex, murdering thousands of civilians as an attempt to suppress Sikh religious rights and freedoms. This tragedy is considered by many as the beginning of the Sikh Genocide.

Following the death of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984, the Indian government launched a multi-day campaign of state-sponsored violence and repression against Sikhs that included disappearances, targeted killings, and coordinated mass violence. Political unrest in India throughout 1984 resulted in the loss of thousands of Sikh lives. Today, transnational repression is still a widespread issue impacting the Sikh community.

Read the full text of the resolution here.

Tell Your Member of Congress to Recognize the Sikh Experience in 1984

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

October 2, 2024

Contact: Amrita Kular, SALDEF Director of Communications

(202) 393-2700 | media@saldef.org

Joint Sikh Organizational Statement on Anti-Sikh Sentiments and Narratives in California

October 2, 2024 (Sacramento, CA) — The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), the Sikh Coalition, the Jakara Movement, and the American Sikh Caucus Committee issued the following joint statement in response to the Sacramento Bee’s October 2 story, “In the shadow of a freeway shooting lurks the fear of Sikhs threatened in California.”

“As organizations working for the civil rights of the Sikh community throughout the United States, we are grateful to the Sacramento Bee for their comprehensive reporting on these critical issues. We have long raised concerns about a concerted effort to blur the lines between Sikhs, supporters of Khalistan, and terrorists or extremists; much of the information and many of the claims made by those quoted in this article validates those fears.”

“First, we are deeply disturbed to know that advocacy groups have been pushing a political agenda in their trainings to law enforcement. It is in the interest of all communities that crimes—including acts of vandalism at houses of worship—are investigated promptly and transparently so that perpetrators can be held to account; to our knowledge, there is no evidence that pro-Khalistan or Sikh individuals are responsible for any such crimes in California. In any case, it is incumbent on law enforcement to ensure that they are receiving objective information about threats to the communities that they serve. We look forward to conducting our own outreach in the interest of correcting any misinformation or disinformation that may have been shared.”

“Second, we are alarmed at the reports of the October 2023 meeting between Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, former Fresno Chief of Police Paco Balderrama, and numerous activists of unknown background or qualifications. The idea that individual Sikh community members are being singled out, accused of links to terrorism, and suggested to be ‘monitored’—all without any evidence of wrongdoing—is profoundly disturbing. To think that one community could do this to another in a post-9/11 world is beyond disheartening.”

“And finally, we are angered by the insinuation of Hindu America Foundation (HAF) Community Outreach Director Ramya Ramakrishnan that northern California gurdwaras (Sikh houses of worship) are somehow institutionally connected to drugs, weapons, and organized crime. Given the shared reverence in the Hindu and Sikh faith traditions for the importance of houses of worship, we fully expect that HAF will issue a public apology for these remarks immediately.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, July 12, 2024

Contact:

Amrita Kular, (202) 393-2700, media@saldef.org

LOCAL AND NATIONAL SIKH ORGANIZATIONS CELEBRATE THE APPOINTMENT OF RAJ SINGH BADHESHA TO THE FRESNO COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT BENCH

Judge Raj Singh Badhesha Represents a Historic First for the Sikh Community in the United States

FRESNO, CA — In a momentous occasion for the Sikh community in the United States, the Jakara Movement, the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), and the Sikh Coalition, are proud to celebrate the historic appointment of Raj Singh Badhesha to the Fresno County Superior Court Bench.

An enrobing ceremony was held Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Fresno City Hall.

Raj Singh Badhesha’s appointment is not just a professional achievement; it represents the culmination of decades of perseverance and dedication by Sikhs in America. He is the first ever Sikh to wear a judge’s robe in Fresno County; he is also the first Amritdhari (fully initiated) Sikh Judge in the United States that wears the Dastar (Sikh turban) or Pagri, per reporting.  Badhesha’s presence on the bench symbolizes the rich cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of the Sikh community.

In response to his appointment, Badhesha remarked, “It is my hope moving forward, that the Sikh youth present here today know that they can use this example and aspire to serve this county, this state, and this nation, in any position they wish to pursue.”  He added, “As I step into this new phase of service, I am aware of the great weight of the responsibilities bestowed upon me…I will strive to do my best each and every day, act impartially, honorably, and with the utmost integrity.”

The Sikh community has deep roots in California’s Central Valley, with Sikh farmers and laborers having settled in the region over a century ago. Their contributions to agriculture and local industry have been invaluable, and their cultural influence is woven into the fabric of the region. Today, Sikhism is the fifth-largest religion in the world, with millions of adherents who follow its teachings of equality, justice, and selfless service.

Immediately before his appointment, Badhesha served as Chief Assistant City Attorney in the Fresno City Attorney’s Office since 2022 and served in several roles in that office since 2012. He was an Associate at the law firm of Baker Manock & Jensen, PC from 2008 to 2012.  Badhesha earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings).

Naindeep Singh, Executive Director of the Jakara Movement, expressed his excitement, stating, “Raj Singh Badhesha’s appointment is a groundbreaking moment for Sikhs in America. It reflects our community’s resilience and our contributions to the broader society. We are incredibly proud of Raj for breaking this glass ceiling and confident that he will bring his unwavering commitment to justice and equality to the bench.”

“Raj Singh Badhesha’s appointment is a proud moment for the Sikh community in the Central Valley, throughout California and across the Country. He has displayed decades of dedication to justice and community advocacy, and serves as an inspiration to all those looking to serve and make change,” added SALDEF Executive Director Kiran Kaur Gill.

Harman Singh, Executive Director of the Sikh Coalition also commented on this milestone: “This appointment is a significant step towards greater representation and diversity within our judicial system. Raj Singh Badhesha’s journey and achievements inspire us all and highlight the importance of inclusion and equality in all spheres of public service.”

The Jakara Movement, SALDEF and the Sikh Coalition, will continue to support and advocate for the Sikh community, celebrating milestones like this that pave the way for future generations.

Pictures of Judge Badhesha’s Enrobing Ceremony are available here.

Have you ever wondered about some lesser-known aspects of Sikhi?

Here are 5 intriguing facts about Sikhi that might surprise you. From the significance of the Five Ks to the concept of Langar, there’s so much to explore about this vibrant and inclusive faith. Dive into the world of Sikhs with us and expand your understanding of the fifth largest religion in the world.

ONE. Sikhism was a catalyst for gender inclusivity in a society that at the time, was dominated by an archaic patriarchal system. The Sikh Gurus emphasized the equality between men and women in the eyes of God. This led to an increase of women’s participation in religious, political and social aspects of society. Many Sikh women were warriors and active participants in civic society. 

TWO. The central holy scripture for Sikhs, Guru Granth Sahib, contains sacred hymns and verses referred to as Gurbani. The recitation of Gurbani is a way in which Sikhs are able to connect with God. Some Sikhs partake in reading the entire Guru Granth Sahib uninterrupted for several days in a very powerful spiritual practice called Sehaj Path. 

THREE.  The beacon symbol of the Sikh faith is called the Khanda. Khanda means “double edged sword” and there is one shown in the center of the symbol. Surrounding the Khanda is a Chakkar, a round throwing blade, with two Kirpans, single-edged swords and one of the 5 articles of faith, crossed at the bottom.

FOUR. The amrit ceremony is how Sikhs join the Khalsa. It was established by Guru Gobind Singh as a response to the persecution faced by Sikhs in that tumultuous period. During the amrit ceremony today, Sikhs who join the Khalsa must pledge to uphold all the tenets of the Sikh faith and “take amrit” by drinking water sweetened with crystalized sugar and stirred with a Khanda.

FIVE. Sikhs have a deep rooted history in the United States. The first Sikh Americans landed on the West Coast of the United States during the 1890s. In 1957, Dalip Singh Saund became the first Asian American and Sikh American elected into the United States House of Representatives where he served three terms representing California’s 29th congressional district under the Democratic Party. 

To learn more about Sikh Americans and the Sikh faith, please visit www.saldef.org/about-sikh-americans/

Join SALDEF and the Fremont Gurdwara Sangat on Saturday, March 30th for a free mental wellness check-in at 4PM PST at the Fremont Gurdwara Sahib. 

The session will be led by experts in the field and members of the community: Jagmeet Sangha, Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Dr. Preet Kaur Sabharwal, co-author of “Counseling and Psychotherapy for South Asian Americans: Identify, Psychology, and Clinical Implications”

Practicing mental wellness and well-being can be challenging, particularly while navigating the stigmas that surround these topics of conversation in our communities and trying to find experts and resources that understand cultural differences. SALDEF recognizes this gap, and is committed to opening up these avenues of dialogue in the hopes of creating a happier, healthier sangat by providing resources to community members and connecting them with experts who understand cultural context.