SALDEF Statement on the Passing of Johnnie D. Giles

For Immediate Release

January 22nd, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

SALDEF Statement on the Passing of Johnnie D. Giles

SALDEF mourns the loss of Johnnie D. Giles, a remarkable leader, mentor, and steadfast ally to Sikh Americans and countless communities across the nation. We join the broader AAPI community in honoring his extraordinary legacy and celebrating his impactful life. 

Johnnie’s profound contributions to the AAPI Community, including SALDEF and Sikh Americans are immeasurable. Through his work at Comcast, he championed the causes of underrepresented communities, ensuring that stories like ours were told authentically and with dignity. His belief in the power of representation led to groundbreaking initiatives that have left an indelible impact:

  • Supported the production and airing of the first-ever Sikh American PSA, which reached millions and set a precedent for future representation of our community in mainstream media.
  • As a member of SALDEF’s Inaugural Media Advisory Board, he provided invaluable counsel, strategic guidance, and connections that advanced our work in cultural advocacy.
  • Through his leadership at Comcast, Johnnie became one of the earliest sponsors of the SikhLEAD program, fostering the next generation of Sikh American leaders and engaging directly with our alumni to inspire and empower them.
  • Ensured authentic Sikh American stories were told, securing partnerships with NBC, MSNBC, and Comcast Newsmakers to amplify Sikh voices in media.

“Johnnie was a titan for the AAPI community—a guiding light, admired for his sharp intellect and strategic vision, and beloved for his kindness, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to uplifting others,” said Kavneet Singh, SALDEF Board Chair. “He was not just a partner in this work but a dear friend, who we will miss immensely.  His generosity and legacy will serve as a lasting source of inspiration to us all.”

Johnnie’s work reflected a deep commitment to equity, representation, and community empowerment. He lived by the belief that inclusion strengthens the fabric of our society, and he worked tirelessly behind the scenes to secure the resources, platforms, and opportunities that helped organizations like SALDEF thrive.

All of us at SALDEF offer our deepest condolences to the Giles family and the countless friends, colleagues, and community members he touched. Johnnie will serve as a constant reminder of how much impact one dedicated person can have. We are committed to honoring his legacy by continuing the work he so passionately championed: fostering representation, empowering marginalized communities, and creating a more inclusive America.

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.

SALDEF and Comcast Continue Unprecedented Partnership to Generate Sikh American Awareness

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Comcast recently re-aired the first-ever Sikh American Public Service Announcement (PSA) across America. The additional 108,000 airings represent $1.14 million in airtime, bringing the company’s total donation to $3.6 million. The PSA continues to introduce a wide audience to Sikh Americans and their 125-year history in the United States. SALDEF received 400 photo contributions by Sikh Americans across the United States to develop the PSA. You can watch the Sikh American PSA at www.youtube.com/SALDEFMedia. The re-airing follows the ground-breaking “Turban Myths” study quantifying the daily anti-Sikh bias experienced by SIkh Americans. The research, conducted by Stanford University in collaboration with SALDEF, found approximately one out of five Americans has fear or apprehension when they see a Sikh American who is a stranger, even if they have some fundamental knowledge about the faith. This historic PSA has now aired in 39 states and Washington D.C. as part of the Comcast’s commitment to educate audiences on a variety of issues. This grant from the Comcast Foundation is in recognition of the company’s commitment to the communities where its customers and employees live and work. SALDEF’s other Media Initiatives to create greater public awareness of Sikhi and Sikh Americans include the annual Langar on the Hill and the first-ever Sikh float in the 2015 Rose Parade. This PSA was produced at no cost to the Sikh American community. We invite you to join SALDEF so we can continue to create partnerships with organizations that contribute to our community and country. Please make a 100% tax-deductible donation to support SALDEF by clicking here or going to www.saldef.org/donate on your mobile device now. Thank You. **Please Share this Announcement on Email, Social Media, and Please Post at your Local Gurdwara** -End-