Organizations Condemn Governor Newsom’s Veto of SB 509

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 7, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

Organizations Condemn Governor Newsom’s Veto of SB 509

As organizations committed to defending civil rights and democratic freedoms, we are profoundly disappointed in Governor Newsom’s veto of SB 509, a measure that would have fortified California’s ability to counter growing patterns of transnational repression (TNR) – harassment, intimidation, surveillance, or threats by foreign governments targeting individuals on U.S. soil. 

If enacted, this bill would have directed the California Office of Emergency Services to develop and regularly update a training program for law enforcement that provides them with the tools necessary to identify, prevent, and respond to the intimidation of Americans by foreign governments. California is home to vulnerable diasporic communities that face a heightened risk of TNR. By vetoing SB 509, the governor missed a critical opportunity to protect Californians from foreign interference and ensure that California stands firmly against entities that weaken democratic safeguards. The decision leaves vulnerable communities without a critical tool that could have been solidified via statute, thereby leaving bad actors to continue their threats and intimidation campaigns unchecked. 

The veto of SB 509 is a setback for the safety and security of all Californians. We stand together to reaffirm the foundational freedoms that everyone is entitled to, including the right to speak freely without fear of foreign interference. Californians deserve to have their voices protected from intimidation, and to have leadership that prioritizes protecting their civil rights. We call on the international community, particularly the United States, to take a strong stance against transnational repression, including ongoing attacks on human rights and free speech. 

Signed:

Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund 

Hindus for Human Rights

The Sikh Coalition 

Amnesty International USA 

South Asian Network 

Uyghur Human Rights Project 

Indian American Muslim Council 

India Civil Watch International

Human Rights in China

Hong Kongers in San Diego

Washingtonians Supporting Hong Kong (DC4HK)

ChinaAid Association

Overseas Chinese Human Rights Lawyer Alliance

Humanitarian China 

Welcome to the very first edition of Faith in Action, a new series celebrating Sikh Americans who live their values every day and strengthen the communities around them.

We begin with the story of a trailblazer who shows that there are no limits to where seva can lead. Seth H.S. Bhogal, a devoted Amritdhari Sikh, recently became the first Sikh American Chief Election Officer in Prince William County, Virginia, a role at the very heart of our democracy.

At a time when election integrity and voter access dominate the national conversation, Sikh Americans like Seth are stepping forward to ensure fairness, inclusion, and trust in the democratic process.

SALDEF: What first drew you to volunteer with SALDEF, and how has your relationship with the organization evolved over the years?

Seth: “Over the years, I have volunteered at various gurdwaras throughout the DMV and I have seen the birth and evolution of SALDEF throughout the years and support its cause. I am proud of the cause and all the help that this organization has brought.”

SALDEF: What motivated you to get involved in election oversight work, and why is this particularly important for the Sikh American community?

Seth: “I have a Sikh identity that I want to share with the world and it was important to show others that Sikhs in America are part of that political voice. I have been in America for 40 years and I have seen how the voices of Americans have evolved. Sikhs should not be afraid to show themselves proudly. As an Amritdhari Sikh, I want to show how Sikhs can overcome barriers publicly and that they can work in any field as I have done. There are no obstacles for me and should not be for other Sikhs.”

SALDEF: Can you walk us through what election oversight actually involves? What does a typical Election Day look like for you?

Seth: “Before Election Day, we go through a rigorous training a few months before learning any and all new procedures involved with elections under Virginia law which includes: classroom training and hands-on training on how to set up the scanners, printers, and booths.

As the Chief Election Officer, on Election Day, my day starts at 4am and I am responsible for the overall management of the precinct and responsible for all materials, equipment (ballots and electronic devices), and delivering all secure ballots at the end of the election day.

I also assign all Election Officers for their job duties and oversee all Election Day operations, which include: communicating with election headquarters for any updates and instructions while keeping everything confidential and respecting the election process while under oath. I have to make sure the entire area is secure leading up to and throughout the day and ensuring the media stays off premises. Polling opens at 6am and ends at 7pm. At 7pm, I take all the election ballots to headquarters under police security.”

SALDEF: What advice would you give to other Sikh Americans considering getting involved in civic engagement work?

Seth: “I feel very proud and privileged to be working in Elections because it shows how a Sikh can show up for all communities. I am also proud to be the first Sikh American volunteering as a Chief Election Officer in Prince William County, Virginia. My only advice to all other Sikh Americans who are considering getting involved in civic engagement work is you must know the law and how to follow the law according to the jurisdictions of any state you are working in. You have to have a solid knowledge of how the election process works and how to be confidential. Also, have experience with dealing with conflicts effectively and follow the three rules: Calm, Observe, Report.”

Rooted in the Sikh principles of justice, equality, and seva, Seth approaches his work with a deep sense of responsibility, ensuring that every voter is treated with dignity and every voice is heard. Through his leadership, he reminds us that faith in action is not just about service, but about upholding truth and justice in every space we enter.

Share Your Story: Know a Sikh American who’s making a difference through their commitment to Sikh values? We want to feature them in an upcoming Faith in Action spotlight. Click here to tell us about their story and contact information.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: October 14, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

Vetoed but Not Silenced: SALDEF Statement on SB 509

Sacramento, California — SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) expresses profound disappointment in Governor Gavin Newsom’s decision to veto SB 509, legislation that would have provided critical protections against transnational repression and enhanced law enforcement training to better serve California’s Sikh community.

While we are disheartened by this outcome, we are deeply moved by and profoundly grateful for the overwhelming community support demonstrated throughout this legislative process. Sikh Americans, civil rights advocates, and allies across California came together in an unprecedented show of solidarity: signing petitions, attending hearings, contacting their representatives, taking time away from work and family to testify, and making their voices heard in Sacramento.

Your dedication, your courage, and your unwavering commitment to this cause have been nothing short of extraordinary. This coalition understood that transnational repression is not just a Sikh issue, but a threat to all Californians and to the fundamental values of safety and freedom that define our state.

“The veto of SB 509 is a setback for the safety and security of all Californians,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “At a time when foreign governments seek to intimidate and silence their critics on American soil, this legislation would have equipped law enforcement with the tools and training needed to protect all residents. The outpouring of support we witnessed from community members who took time away from work and family to testify, to the countless individuals who contacted their representatives demonstrates that Californians understand what’s at stake. Together, we will create the California we all deserve, one that truly protects all its people.”

SALDEF remains committed to advancing policies that protect our community from transnational repression, ensure law enforcement is equipped to recognize and respond to these threats, and safeguard the civil rights of Sikh Americans. We are grateful to Senator Caballero for her leadership on combatting this issue and for every individual and organization that stood with us in support of SB 509.

Today’s setback does not diminish our hope but instead it fuels our determination. We invite all Californians who believe in safety, justice, and the fundamental right to live without fear to join us in building a future where every person can speak freely, practice their faith openly, and thrive without intimidation.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, October 6 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

SALDEF Denounces Recent Comments at Quantico, Virginia

Washington, D.C.—On September 30th, 2025, during a speech in Quantico, Virginia, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced sweeping new directives for troops targeting the appearance of personnel, including the elimination of religious exemptions for beards. A subsequent memorandum states that facial hair waivers will not be authorized, reverting to grooming standards pre 2010. 

SALDEF strongly opposes this directive. It represents a troubling disregard for the religious rights of service members—including Sikh Americans—who have long fought for the right to serve with their articles of faith intact.

For Sikhs, maintaining unshorn hair (kesh) and wearing a turban is not a matter of personal style. It is central to our faith and identity. To dismiss these expressions as mere violations of discipline not only ignores decades of progress on religious accommodation, but insults the integrity of Sikh soldiers who serve honorably while remaining true to their beliefs. This directive signals a dangerous retreat to exclusionary policies that alienate those who have fought to serve while staying true to their faith. 

“Religious accommodations for service members, especially Sikhs who wear turbans and beards, marked a significant step towards a more equitable nation,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “These new directives deliberately dismantle that progress. We will not stand by while this administration rolls back hard-won civil rights.”

We call on Secretary Hegseth to reverse this exclusionary directive. Serving one’s country should never require abandoning your faith. Sikh Americans have demonstrated that it is possible—and powerful—to serve with honor, courage, conviction and articles of the Sikh identity.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 24, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

SALDEF Demands Accountability for 73-Year-Old Sikh Woman Subjected to Inhumane Conditions

San Francisco, CA – SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) condemns the inhumane treatment of Harjit Kaur, a 73-year-old Sikh woman, who endured deplorable conditions after being detained. While Ms. Kaur has now safely returned to India, the egregious mistreatment she suffered and along with the complete disregard for her human dignity throughout this process demand accountability and systemic reform.

Ms. Kaur, who lived in California for more than three decades and complied with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) requirements including biannual reporting for over 13 years without incident, was arrested by ICE on September 8 during a routine check-in in San Francisco. Despite being prepared to return to India as ordered by the courts, she was subjected to unconscionable treatment that violated basic standards of human decency.

Mr. Deepak Ahluwalia, Ms. Kaur’s legal counsel, expressed, “Ms. Harjit Kaur waited over 13 years for ICE to procure her travel documents. A 73 year-old grandmother with zero criminal history, who was neither a flight risk nor a danger to the community, should never have been detained – let alone treated the way she was while in ICE custody.”

During her detention at the Mesa Verde ICE Processing Center in Bakersfield, California, Ms. Kaur was denied vegetarian meals, was not provided a bed, and suffered severe delays in receiving necessary medications. She endured overcrowded, loud, and distressing visiting conditions. Most disturbingly, she was transferred in the middle of the night to a detention facility in Georgia without notification to her family, community, or legal counsel. This cruel practice strips individuals of their fundamental right to maintain contact with support systems and legal representation.

“When this hit us, we didn’t even know where to start. At every phase, we were kept in the dark and had no idea what was next. The inhumane treatment she faced by ICE was deeply troubling, but her strength—and the incredible support from SALDEF, Deepak Ahluwalia, the Sikh Coalition, Jakara, Congressman Garamendi, and Harpreet Sandhu—helped her through.” shared Harjit’s close family friend, Heeral Mehta.

Ms. Kaur’s case exposes systemic failures within detention centers, particularly regarding the treatment of vulnerable individuals who pose no threat to public safety. Her experience represents a broader pattern of dehumanizing practices that must be addressed through comprehensive reform and oversight. Working alongside Attorney Deepak Ahluwalia, SALDEF immediately mobilized to support Ms. Kaur by applying sustained pressure from elected officials on federal agencies and advocating for her dignified treatment.

“This case demonstrates the urgent need for accountability and humane treatment in our immigration system,” said SALDEF Executive Director Kiran Kaur Gill. “No individual should endure such degrading treatment, especially someone who has faithfully complied with ICE requirements for over a decade. While we are relieved that Ms. Kaur has safely reached India, we will continue fighting to ensure no other person faces such inhumane treatment and that those responsible are held accountable.”

SALDEF calls on Congress and immigration authorities to implement immediate reforms to prevent similar abuses. SALDEF encourages community members to stay vigilant and visit www.saldef.org/kyr for resources to protect themselves and their loved ones.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 19, 2025
Contact: media@saldef.org

SALDEF Endorses September 11th Congressional Resolution

Washington, D.C. – SALDEF endorses a House Resolution introduced by Representative Pramila Jayapal, which acknowledges the hate and targeting that the Sikh, Muslim, Arab, Middle Eastern, and South Asian communities faced in the aftermath of September 11, 2001. 

We are grateful that the bill acknowledges the murder of Balbir Singh Sodhi, a Sikh man who was murdered in Mesa, Arizona on September 15th, 2001. This was the first fatal act of hate violence in the post 9/11 aftermath.

The same divisive and xenophobic rhetoric that resulted in hate violence against the Sikh community continues to cause harm. Communities are often targeted with overreaching policing, surveillance, and criminalization, as outlined by the bill. 

The bill does not simply recognize the attacks against our communities, but also advocates for the creation of an independent commission to work with community-based organizations to review harmful government policies and to provide recommendations for dismantling them, as well as build out support avenues for victims of hate and State violence. 

We thank the co-leads and sponsors of the resolution: Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28), Rep. André Carson (IN-07), Rep. Jim Costa (CA-21), Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), and Rep. Lateefah Simon (CA-12)

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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, August 29, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

SALDEF Applauds Assembly Appropriations Committee Passage of SB 509, a Landmark Bill to Combat Transnational Repression in California

Sacramento, CA — SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund)  applauds the California Assembly Appropriations Committee for advancing SB 509, a groundbreaking bill that confronts the growing threat of transnational repression.

SB 509 requires California law enforcement agencies to receive training to recognize and respond to cases where foreign governments target, surveil, or intimidate individuals on American soil including Sikh Americans, Chinese democracy advocates, Uyghurs, Tibetans, Iranian dissidents, and other immigrant communities.

The passage of SB 509 through the Appropriations Committee follows compelling testimony from SALDEF and Sikh community members, whose voices underscored the urgent need for this legislation. Their advocacy demonstrates the power of civic engagement and the real impact communities can make when they speak out.

“The Appropriations Committee’s passage of SB 509 is a powerful acknowledgment that Californians deserve safety from harassment and intimidation, regardless of where it originates,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “For too long, diaspora communities — including Sikhs — have lived under the shadow of foreign repression. This bill ensures our law enforcement agencies are trained to meet the threat with seriousness, accountability, and urgency.”

Transnational repression is a growing tactic used by authoritarian regimes to silence critics abroad, often through threats, surveillance, and intimidation. California — home to some of the nation’s largest immigrant communities — has become a critical front in ensuring these threats do not undermine safety, democracy, or free expression.

Authored by Senator Anna Caballero (D-14), SB 509 now heads to the Assembly floor for a final vote.

“SB 509 is not just a bill for one community — it is protection for all communities who have chosen California as their home,” said Gill. “SALDEF urges continued support for this legislation as it moves to the Assembly floor. Together, we can ensure that California takes a historic step toward protecting vulnerable communities and strengthening democracy.”

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.

A Call for Truth and Accountability in North Hollywood

On Tuesday afternoon, I received a call from Gurdial Singh ji, the brother of Harpal Singh ji who was violently assaulted in the parking lot of the 7-11 in North Hollywood, just a couple doors down from the local Gurdwara where he stayed. 

The call was related to the preliminary hearing the next day. The defendant would be present and the DA would read the charges against him. Gurdial ji was calling local sangat members to attend the hearing to show support. I was surprised that after he shared the details of the hearing that the conversation quickly turned to food. 

He wanted to make sure no one was hungry at the hearing. He was planning to bring paronthey (stuffed or layered pan-fried flatbread) and daahi (yogurt) to the hearing, and he wanted to know if he should bring sabji (vegetables) as well. It took me back that in the face of such personal tragedy and loss this was focused on others, but in coming to know the family over the last several weeks I should not have been surprised at all. 

I have been in touch with Gurdial Singh ji and his family about the assault for several weeks now. Like everyone else, I saw the video of Harpal Singh ji with blood streaming down his face, clearly having been brutally beaten. In seeing these images, I was both deeply saddened and heartbroken. While I did not know Harpal Singh ji personally, the way he sat still and crossed legged in this moment of tragedy, to me signaled quiet strength, calm and fortitude in the face of senseless violence.  

In addition to being the Executive Director of SALDEF, I am also a resident of North Hollywood. My husband works walking distance from the 7-11 where Harpal Singh was assaulted. We are both intimately familiar with the area. In the course of the last couple weeks I have had the opportunity to have conversations with neighbors and sangat members about Harpal Singh, the North Hollywood community and the assault. From these many conversations, a clear picture of Harpal Singh ji emerges.  

Harpal Singh ji is a devout Gursikh who selflessly served his sangat and as well as the greater North Hollywood community. In speaking to community members, they recall Harpal Singh ji feeding the birds, providing meals to the hungry and helping those in need. Many fondly recalled seeing him on his daily walks.

Harpal Singh’s family lives out these values as well. I recall my conversations with the Bhai Sahibs at the North Hollywood gurdwara. They shared how Gurdial Singh ji frequently attends the gurdwara as early as 4 am to do seva.  That is why, in retrospect, I should not have been at all surprised that, the day before the hearing, a time in which Harpal Singh ji’s family would come face to face with the man who allegedly perpetrated a brutal attack against their loved one, their focus was on the community.  

Right now, this case is still under investigation by LAPD. The hearing this past Wednesday, August 27th, was called and moved to next Tuesday, September 2nd, at which time we will see the evidence presented by the DA’s office.

And yet, while Harpal Singh ji remains in critical condition, unable to speak for himself, the LAPD Chief of Police has publicly labeled the attack as a “property dispute”. To me and many in our community, this feels not only premature but also deeply inconsistent with the Harpal Singh ji that we know, or in my case, have come to know. Unless there are witnesses who saw what led up to the assault or there is evidence of what led up it, there will be a piecing together of the facts. Our community deserves the truth of what happened that afternoon. Harpal Singh’s family deserves accountability. And our sangat, which has shown such grace and resilience in the face of violence, deserves a legal system that honors their dignity rather than dismisses their pain.

As we seek the truth from our imperfect legal system, my sincere hope is that the verdict will be reflective of reality and that Harpal Singh’s family and our community will get the answers we so desperately seek.  

SALDEF continues to call for a full and thorough investigation. Above all, we ask for the truth of what happened to Harpal Singh ji the afternoon of August 4, 2025 in North Hollywood, CA. 

In pursuit of truth and justice,

Kiran Kaur Gill | SALDEF Executive Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 27, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

Justice without Prejudice: SALDEF Responds to Florida Tragedy Involving Harjinder Singh

St. Lucie County, Florida — SALDEF (The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) mourns the three lives, Herby Dufresne (30), Rodrigue Dor (54), and Faniloa Joseph (37), that were tragically lost in a truck driving accident in Florida involving Harjinder Singh.

SALDEF calls for a fair and transparent investigation into the incident, which prioritizes justice and accountability for the tragedy above all else. Everyone is entitled to due process and equal treatment under the law, regardless of their background. Exploiting Mr. Singh’s identity or immigration status to push xenophobic narratives undermines the lives that were lost. 

Justice must be rooted in facts and not prejudice. This incident has been sensationalized by the current charged political climate, which too often fuels harmful rhetoric. This moment of tragedy must not be weaponized to spread bias, dangerous assumptions, or perpetuate harm to divide communities. 

The case of Mr. Singh presents an opportunity to prioritize accountability, healing, and genuine safety for all communities.

SALDEF will continue to monitor this case to ensure Mr Singh’s rights are being protected during his trial and time in custody. As this situation unfolds, we urge the Sikh American community to verify the validity of any GoFundMe pages and petitions being shared.

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