Groundbreaking “Sikhs in Storytelling” Event in Chicago: A Celebration of Sikh Voices in Arts, Media, and Public Life

FOR PLANNING PURPOSES— MEDIA ADVISORY

Contact: Amrita Kular, Director of Communications, amrita.kular@saldef.org

Groundbreaking “Sikhs in Storytelling” Event in Chicago: A Celebration of Sikh Voices in Arts, Media, and Public Life

WASHINGTON D.C. — May 11, 2025 – SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) is proud to present Sikhs in Storytelling, a groundbreaking celebration of Sikh American voices through art, film, media, and live performance. Taking place at the Copernicus Center in Chicago, the event brings together renowned artists, public figures, and creators to explore the power of storytelling in advancing Sikh American narratives.

The event includes panel discussions, performances, art exhibits, and live storytelling that reflect the depth and breadth of Sikh American experiences. From Emmy-nominated filmmakers to global artists, the program will showcase a diverse lineup of talent, including: 

  • Humble the Poet – Bestselling author, spoken word artist, cultural influencer, with over 540k followers on Instagram.
  • Inkquisitive (Amandeep Singh) – Global visual artist known for vibrant, thought-provoking work with over 290k followers on Instagram
  • Jag Bains – Winner of T.V. show Big Brother Season 25
  • Jeevin Singh Neelam – Actor, CBS S.W.A.T., supported by SALDEF
  • M’Laah Kaur Singh – Actress, Marvel’s Avengers. Dhoom 3, and more
  • Harvind Kaur Singh – Emmy-nominated journalist and producer
  • PJ Randhawa – NBC Investigative Reporter
  • Ranjeev Puri – House Democratic Leader, Michigan Legislature, and currently the highest-ranking Sikh elected official in America.
  • Other notable local and internationally renowned speakers 

WHAT:

Sikhs in Storytelling is a first-of-its-kind immersive experience celebrating Sikh identity and representation across creative industries. Programming includes:

  • Art gallery and panel with local and global Sikh artists
  • Film & TV representation panel with actors from CBS S.W.A.T., Big Brother, and Avengers, and more
  • Storytelling & advocacy discussions featuring activists and elected officials
  • Live Performances including a rock band set, a DJ set, and poetry readings
  • Mother’s Day Tribute with live music, art, and poetry
  • Networking & community building opportunities throughout the day

WHEN:

Sunday, May 11, 2025
2:00 PM – 8:00 PM CST

WHERE:

The Copernicus Center
5216 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60630

WHY:

Sikh Americans remain deeply underrepresented in mainstream arts, media, and policy. This event is part of SALDEF’s ongoing mission to change that through narrative power and community investment. Sikhs in Storytelling is a space for reimagining and uplifting what Sikh representation looks like across sectors—and who gets to tell our stories.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

  • Interviews with featured speakers and artists
  • Behind-the-scenes access and photo/video opportunities
  • Expert commentary on narrative change, identity, and visibility in media
  • High-quality visuals of art exhibits, panelists, and performances

RSVP & PRESS CREDENTIALS:

Members of the media are encouraged to RSVP in advance for press access. To secure credentials or schedule interviews, please contact media@saldef.org

For more information about Sikhs in Storytelling, visit https://SikhsinStorytelling.eventbrite.com

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

Contacts: media@saldef.org, media@sikhcoalition.org

 

Sikh Organizations Release Joint Statement on Closure of U.S. Department of Homeland Security Watchdog Agencies

March 26, 2025 (Washington, DC) — Today, SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) and the Sikh Coalition released the following joint statement on last week’s reports that the Department of Homeland Security is closing three key “watchdog” agencies.

“As longtime advocates for Sikh civil rights, we are disturbed that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a ‘reduction in force’ that all but eliminates the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, the Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman, and the Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman. While we are clear-eyed about the enforcement capabilities of these offices, we know firsthand that a legal venue for challenging abuses against migrants is important.” 

“For years, our organizations have been working collaboratively with allies to stop the mistreatment of Sikhs and their articles of faith. As recently as February, in fact, individuals in DHS custody have alleged that their turbans were seized and destroyed (among other mistreatments) in the course of their detention and deportation. Each of our organizations have sought answers and accountability from the Trump Administration on this matter, and neither has received a response. The closure of these offices will only make it harder to protect Sikh detainees’ religious rights—and the human rights and basic dignity to which all detainees, regardless of their background, are entitled to under the Constitution.” 

“It is additionally chilling to see these closures against the backdrop of the Trump Administration’s escalating battle with the judiciary regarding their invocation of the Alien Enemies Act and subsequent rendition, without due process, of individuals alleged to be Venezuelan gang members to third-party countries. We call on leaders within DHS, the Department of Justice, and elsewhere in the federal government to commit to respecting the religious and civil rights of all people—even in the course of immigration enforcement.”

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For Immediate Release 

March 21, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

Washington State Senate Recognizes Sikh American Contributions

We are excited to share that the Washington State Senate has passed a resolution honoring Sikh Americans for their contributions to Washington and the U.S!

Sponsored by State Senator Manka Dhingra (D-Redmond), the first Sikh American elected to a state legislature, the resolution highlights Sikh values of service, truth, and equality and acknowledges the resilience of our community.

“We are a community deeply rooted in truth and service,” said Senator Dhingra. “At a time of rising hate, we must ensure all people feel safe and welcomed. I am honored to be able to represent Sikh Americans in Washington state.”

Senator Dhingra also reflected on the 1907 Bellingham Riots and the progress made today with Satpal Singh Sidhu serving as Whatcom County Executive—a testament to the strength of the Sikh American community.

“This recognition reflects our journey from exclusion to representation and the vital contributions of Sikh Americans breaking barriers for us all,” said Whatcom County Executive Satpal Singh Sidhu.

At SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund), we are proud to uplift this achievement.

“This resolution stands as a testament to the Sikh American community’s enduring impact on the social, cultural, and economic fabric of Washington State and the nation.” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “It is a powerful affirmation of the strength, unity, and values we bring to our shared communities, and we are grateful for Senator Dhingra’s leadership in advancing this important recognition.”

We thank Senator Dhingra, Whatcom County Executive Sidhu, and community leaders for championing Sikh representation.

Watch the full Senate session here.

Click Here to Watch the Full Senate Session

For Immediate Release
Contact: media@saldef.org
Monday, March 3rd, 2025

SALDEF Secures Passage of Virginia’s House of Worship Safety Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. — SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) congratulates Virginia House Delegate JJ Singh on the successful passage of HB 2594, a groundbreaking piece of legislation aimed at developing best practices to keep houses of worship safe from hate crimes. This critical bill, now headed to Governor Youngkin’s desk for signature, is an important step in protecting communities of faith across the Commonwealth, including Sikh gurdwaras, from rising threats and acts of hate. Through dedicated advocacy, SALDEF not only championed this essential measure but also played a key role in rallying support from a diverse coalition of groups committed to protecting places of worship. This victory marks a critical step forward in enhancing the safety and security of places of worship across Virginia.

As the first turbaned Sikh elected to any state legislature in the United States, Delegate Singh’s leadership has already made history. Through this bill, he continues to demonstrate his commitment to ensuring that places of worship—spaces meant for prayer, community gathering, and peace—are protected and respected. By uniting various communities and organizations, SALDEF helped secure broad backing for the bill, ensuring that the voices and concerns of the Sikh community were central in the fight against rising threats and acts of hate. 

“This bill is a direct response to the concerns voiced by Sikh Americans and other religious communities who, far too often, find themselves targets of hate and intimidation,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “We commend Delegate Singh for his leadership and foresight in addressing these urgent safety needs, and we are proud to have supported this effort to protect not just gurdwaras, but all houses of worship across Virginia. This is the kind of proactive, inclusive policymaking that keeps our communities safe.”

“I’m grateful to SALDEF for providing insights and support in getting this legislation to the Governor’s desk,” said Delegate JJ Singh (VA-26). “This bill is an important step in keeping Virginia’s religious communities safe and ensuring our houses of worship remain places of peace and sanctuary.”

The House of Worship Safety Bill establishes best practices for safeguarding religious institutions, including security planning, emergency preparedness, and strategies to prevent and respond to hate crimes targeting faith communities.

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SALDEF Policy Expert: Upholding Community Values in a Shifting Political Climate

Check out our interview with SALDEF Policy Expert, Jyot Singh, to discuss SALDEF’s unwavering commitment to values-driven advocacy. Even amidst political volatility, we’re pushing for progress on issues like transnational repression and combating mis/disinformation, where bipartisan support exists. Continue reading to learn how SALDEF is pushing for change and how you can get involved.
What are SALDEF’s priorities for the upcoming legislative session, and how will these priorities benefit the Sikh community?

In terms of Washington, D.C., we are focusing on issue areas where there might still be a bipartisan consensus. For instance, legislation or resolutions standing opposed to transnational repression tend to draw in bipartisan sponsors and votes because that is an attack on citizens’ constitutional rights. We also anticipate continuing traction in the areas of mis- and dis-info and censorship, again because it is a bipartisan push to protect all Americans’ rights to access verified and accurate information about the world in which they live.

Sikh Americans are among many communities targeted offline and online in TNR efforts, and they deserve advocacy on those fronts no matter who is in office. More broadly, it is important to remain constant in values-driven community-based advocacy. Issues that matter greatly to our community, like immigration, are the subject of intense political activity and SALDEF prioritizes the continued presence of Sikh Americans advocating for Sikh Americans in these conversations alongside our allies in Congress, the dedicated civil servants with whom we continue to work, and in coalition with our fellow federal advocates in AANHPI civil society.

How does SALDEF collaborate with other organizations and coalitions to advance its policy agenda, and what are some recent examples of successful partnerships?

Research-driven narrative disruption is best achieved in partnership. Our Virtually Vulnerable landscape reportis a microcosm of our method: we worked with partner advocates from other ethno-religious groups in the Indian-American diaspora to share our experiences with the same basic set of tactics employed by the same repressive state on social media. In so doing, we began to operate in a narrative frame not of our individual groups (Sikh, Indian Muslim, progressive Hindu) set against a monolith but as a values-based coalition.

The feedback loop between our establishing technical expertise on policy issues via research and demonstrating that expertise in our advocacy is an open door: on every issue, we work in coalition with the right partners to amplify impact. We also use our presence in coalitions and working groups to build new coalitions with new partners, always keeping one step ahead of the narrative frames used by those who oppose progress on our priorities.

How can Sikh Americans get more involved in the policy-making process and advocate for their own interests?

You are your legislators’ boss.Even if you didn’t vote for them, the job they hold is done in the name of representing you, your interests, and your priorities in the corridors of power whether they are in Washington, D.C., the capital of your state, or even your county board. They operate offices in their districts intended to serve your constituents, and you should know who they are and where those offices are.

Community groups should invite these legislators to visit the gurdwara, and (especially at the local level) show up to meetings open to the public. Public policy to create services that you need is the core of how our government is intended to work, and so every word of every draft bill is uploaded on the internet for free. Safeguarding democracy is a responsibility we all share as citizens, but there is no reason to accept the notion that we can only engage in governing at the ballot box.

What inspired you to work in policy and advocacy, and what advice would you give to young Sikhs who are interested in pursuing similar careers?

I say this with a smile – we don’t all need to be doctors. The advice I would give is actually a bit broader than policy – I would advise all young Sikhs, and young people, to trust their gut and heart more than they trust people who say they know best. I am an advocate because this is the place my path led once I decided to trust myself about what I wanted. In my case, I knew what I wanted was work that was dynamic, challenging, and deeply rewarding – but I had to learn more deeply than that about my purpose.

For me, that purpose is doing my small part to defend and advance the great American experiment: the decision taken in 1776 to establish the world’s first government of the people, by the people, for the people. Any young Sikh who can look inside themselves, really listen to what moves them, and then pursue that purpose faithfully (in balance with the values our parents teach) will find the right path.

To stay updated on SALDEF’s advocacy efforts and discover ways YOU can support our policy agenda for Sikh Americans, sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter, The SALDEF Scoop, at tinyurl.com/saldefscoop!

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.”

For Immediate Release

January 26th, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

SALDEF Condemns DHS Rescission of “Sensitive Areas” Guidelines Removing Protections for Gurdwaras

WASHINGTON D.C. — SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund) expresses grave concern over the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) recent directive rescinding the guidelines that designated “sensitive areas,” such as houses of worship, where immigration enforcement actions were previously restricted. This troubling shift in policy comes in tandem with community reports of DHS agents visiting gurdwaras in the New York and New Jersey areas just days after the directive was issued.

“We are deeply alarmed by the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to eliminate protections for sensitive areas and then target places of worship like gurdwaras,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “Gurdwaras are not just places of worship; they are vital community centers that provide support, nourishment, and spiritual solace to Sikhs and the broader community. Targeting these spaces for enforcement actions threatens the sanctity of our faith and sends a chilling message to immigrant communities nationwide.”

The rescinded guidelines recognized the critical need to protect spaces like gurdwaras, churches, mosques, and schools from enforcement operations to uphold trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement. SALDEF strongly opposes any policies or actions that undermine these principles and violate the sanctity of places of worship.

SALDEF urges DHS to immediately reconsider this directive and calls on the broader community to report any additional incidents of enforcement actions at gurdwaras or other places of worship. The organization remains steadfast in its commitment to holding DHS accountable to conduct its operations in a manner consistent with existing laws and the fundamental rights of all Americans.

“We encourage members of the Sikh community to remain vigilant and report any DHS activity at gurdwaras to SALDEF,” added Gill. “We are committed to advocating for policies that respect the civil rights and religious freedoms of all communities, and we will continue to push DHS to act in alignment with these values.”

 

Know Your Rights (Gurmukhi) Know Your Rights (English)

For Immediate Release

January 7th, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

SALDEF Mourns the Loss of Dr. Marwah, Campaign Leader for Congressman Dalip Singh Saund

WASHINGTON D.C. — SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund), joins the nation in mourning the passing of Dr. Marwah, a trailblazing figure whose management of Congressman Dalip Singh Saund’s congressional campaign made history. Dr. Marwah’s leadership and vision played an instrumental role in the election of Congressman Saund, the first Asian American, Indian American, and Sikh American member of the United States Congress.

Dr. Marwah’s dedication to public service and his commitment to uplifting the voices of underrepresented communities exemplify the values of resilience and advocacy that continue to inspire generations of leaders. His legacy is a testament to the transformative power of grassroots organizing and the enduring impact of representation in American democracy.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Dr. Marwah,” said SALDEF Executive Director Kiran Kaur Gill. “His role in Congressman Saund’s historic campaign was not just a victory for Sikh Americans but a milestone for all Americans. His work opened doors for countless others to follow in his footsteps, and his legacy will remain an inspiration to those fighting for equity and representation.”

As we reflect on Dr. Marwah’s extraordinary contributions, SALDEF reaffirms our commitment to honoring his legacy by continuing to advance the values of justice, equity, and inclusion that he so fervently championed.

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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.