SALDEF Statement on Violent Attack of Sikh Community Member in Los Angeles

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, August 11, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

SALDEF Statement on Violent Attack of Sikh Community Member in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CA — Late last week, SALDEF received a report regarding a violent assault on Mr. Harpal Singh on the afternoon of August 4 outside a 7-Eleven in North Hollywood — within walking distance of the Lankershim Sikh Gurdwara of Los Angeles.

According to the family, Mr. Singh was attacked by unidentified individuals at approximately 3 p.m. Emergency services transported him to a local hospital, where he remains in the ICU after multiple surgeries to his head and face. SALDEF’s Executive Director, a North Hollywood resident, has been in direct contact with the victim’s family, the Los Angeles Police Department, and members of the sangat at the Lankershim Gurdwara to understand the situation and ensure the family receives necessary support.

“At this moment, our hearts are with Mr. Singh and his loved ones,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “We do not yet know whether this was a hate-motivated attack, but we do know that no one should fear for their safety in their community. Guided by Sikh values of nyay (justice), seva (selfless care), and Sarbat da Bhalla (the welfare of all), our focus must be on care, safety, and ensuring a full and thorough investigation.”

While the motive is still unknown, SALDEF remains committed to working with law enforcement, partner organizations and the family to ensure a complete and thorough investigation.

SALDEF will continue to monitor developments closely and provide updates as they become available.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

Update: Arrest in North Hollywood Assault of Harpal Singh

LOS ANGELES, CA — SALDEF has been informed that the suspect in the assault of Mr. Harpal Singh in North Hollywood was apprehended by law enforcement last night at 9:40 p.m. PT. We are grateful for the swift action of the Los Angeles Police Department and for the cooperation of community members who assisted in the investigation.

Mr. Singh remains in the ICU as he recovers from multiple surgeries to his head and face. SALDEF continues to be in close contact with his family, offering support and ensuring that their needs are met during this difficult time.

While the motive for the attack is still under investigation, SALDEF remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring a full and transparent process, and in advocating for the safety and dignity of all members of our community.

We will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.

SALDEF Responds to Executive Order Undermining Birthright Citizenship

WASHINGTON, DC – Earlier this year, President Trump issued an executive order (EO) that would restrict birthright citizenship based on the documentation status of a child’s parents, but the EO was challenged and temporarily blocked by lower courts. In Trump v. Casa, the Supreme Court did not rule on the legality of changing the birthright citizenship rules, but ended the ability of federal district judges to freeze unlawful executive policies nationwide–allowing the White House to proceed, in some parts of the country, toward an unprecedented narrowing of the definition of precisely who is an American. 

President Trump’s executive order (EO) aimed at ending birthright citizenship attempts to change the application of the 14th Amendment; something that no president has ever attempted. The EO targets not just the children of parents who are undocumented but also the children of those with an array of legal, non-permanent statuses such as H-1B visas or Temporary Protected Status (TPS). This sweeping change would erode a foundational principle of American identity–that all people born here are afforded the full rights and protections of the Constitution–and is dangerous for all immigrant communities, including Sikh Americans.

“We will always stand for the rights enshrined in the 14th Amendment and support a unified, humane immigration system that does not vary from state to state,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “We look forward to the Supreme Court ultimately ruling on the merits that this threat to the promise of equality, a bedrock principle of our democracy, is blatantly unconstitutional.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 6, 2025
Contact: media@saldef.org

SALDEF Responds to Rep. Mary Miller’s Xenophobic Remarks About Sikh House Prayer

Washington, D.C. — The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) strongly condemns the xenophobic and factually incorrect remarks made by U.S. Representative Mary Miller (R-IL) in response to a Sikh Granthi (priest) delivering the opening prayer in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In a now-deleted post, Rep. Miller expressed that such a prayer “should never have been allowed,” inaccurately identifying the Sikh faith and questioning the legitimacy of a non-Christian leading the House in prayer.

“U.S. Representative Mary Miller’s remarks are inexcusable and contrary to the principles our country was founded on,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “America’s strength comes from its diversity and acceptance of people of all faiths, races, and backgrounds. We call upon Rep. Miller to issue an immediate apology for her hateful and reprehensible remarks, and urge House leadership and the Republican Party to repudiate and condemn these statements.”

“To say that Sikhs, or our Muslim brothers and sisters, are not American is not only shameful, it’s dangerous,” Gill continued. “These statements, especially from a sitting member of Congress, have real-life consequences. Sikh Americans already face discrimination, hate crimes, and targeted violence simply because of how we look and what we believe. Rep. Miller’s comments don’t just reflect ignorance—they actively fuel bigotry and give cover to those who seek to divide and harm.”

SALDEF extends an invitation to Rep. Miller and her staff to meet with Sikh American community members to discuss the impact of her remarks and to provide a better understanding of Sikhism and the contributions of Sikh Americans to our nation.

Read Our Community Statement Here. 

Standing Against Hate: Defending Sikh American Values

SALDEF is deeply troubled by remarks made today by U.S. Representative Mary Miller (R-IL), which are not only inexcusable but also fundamentally at odds with the principles on which our country was founded. These remarks are now deleted.

Our nation’s strength lies in its diversity—in the rich tapestry of faiths, backgrounds, and cultures that define the American experience. To suggest that Sikhs—or our Muslim brothers and sisters—are not American is not only false, but dangerous. These statements, especially from a sitting member of Congress, have real and harmful consequences.

Sikh Americans already face discrimination, hate crimes, and targeted violence simply because of how we look and what we believe. Rep. Miller’s comments go beyond ignorance—they stoke the flames of bigotry and embolden those who seek to divide and harm.

We are calling on Rep. Miller to issue an immediate apology for her reprehensible remarks. We also urge House leadership and the Republican Party to clearly repudiate and condemn these statements.

At SALDEF, we welcome Representative Miller and her staff to meet and to offer a better understanding of the Sikh faith and the contributions of Sikh Americans to our nation.

Your support enables us to respond swiftly and forcefully when our community is under attack. Thank you for standing with us in defense of dignity, equality, and justice for all.

Traveling this Summer? Join Our FREE Know Your Rights Webinar!

SALDEF is hosting a FREE Know Your Rights webinar on Wednesday, June 18th at 6PM EST. Learn how to protect yourself and your family during travel during this uncertain time.

From encountering immigration enforcement at home to border patrol after traveling abroad, SALDEF is here to help you learn your rights. 

Here’s What You’ll Learn:

  • Your rights during travel, regardless of immigration status
  • What to do if you’re stopped or questioned by TSA or border patrol agents
  • How to prepare before leaving and returning to the U.S.
  • How different immigration statuses may impact your travel
  • Practical tips to stay safe and confident while traveling

This webinar will be conducted in English and Punjabi featuring:

  • Anas J. Ahmed, Attorney (New York)
  • Manjit Singh, SALDEF Co-Founder

Register now: www.tinyurl.com/kyrsikhtravel

Disclaimer: This webinar is for informational purposes only. SALDEF and its speakers cannot provide legal advice about your specific case.

 

Historic Victory: SB 509 Passes CA Senate Unanimously!

We are thrilled to share that SB 509 has passed the California Senate floor with a unanimous 38-0 vote and bipartisan support! This overwhelming result reflects both the credibility of the bill and the strength of our community’s advocacy.

SB 509 is a landmark piece of legislation that:

  • Strengthens the protections of American sovereignty and freedom of speech
  • Defines transnational repression as a civil rights violation under California law. 
  • Directs the California Office of Emergency Services to train state and local law enforcement on how to recognize and respond to threats of transnational repression
  • Ensures that all Californians can safely exercise their First Amendment rights, without interference or intimidation from foreign entities.

With unanimous passage with every vote in the Senate, SB 509 is now poised to keep its momentum in the State Assembly. 

We want to recognize and thank everyone who helped make this win possible—especially the community members who showed up in person and educated legislators on the importance of anti-TNR police training, the Gurdwaras who signed letters of support, the community-based advocates drawn from across the diaspora and from across California, and for the countless California sangat who signed on to our support letter urging their Senators to vote YES on this bill. 

A special thank you Senator Anna Caballero (D-14) for authoring and carrying this bill to passage in the Senate, and to all partners involved in making this historic feat a reality: the Sikh Coalition, Jakara Movement, American Sikh Caucus, Hindus for Human Rights, and various civil rights leaders across the nation.

Together, we are helping California continue to lead in protecting the free speech rights of all diaspora communities from any foreign repression.

SALDEF Policy Roundup: Defending Rights, Securing Places of Worship, and Shaping Policy Nationwide

Your continued support enables SALDEF to protect Sikh American rights and values at the national level, in state legislatures, and in your community. Here’s the latest on the policy front:

National Advocacy

DEFENDING BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP

What’s Happening:
A recent Executive Order, “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,” seeks to eliminate birthright citizenship for the U.S.-born children of undocumented immigrants or temporary visa holders.

Legal Status:
The Supreme Court heard oral arguments on May 15, 2025, following consolidation with Trump v. Casa, Inc. and Trump v. New Jersey. Watch the hearing here.

SALDEF Action:
We joined a national amicus brief opposing the order, defending birthright citizenship as a constitutional guarantee essential to Asian American communities and American democracy.

Why It Matters:
This policy echoes the discriminatory legacy of United States v. Thind, when Indian immigrants were stripped of citizenship. SALDEF is standing firm with allies to ensure these injustices are never repeated.

IMPROVING HATE CRIME REPORTING

What’s Happening:
The Improving Reporting to Prevent Hate Act (IRPHA) requires the Department of Justice to monitor localities’ hate crime data reporting—and educate areas that fall short. Communities failing to improve may risk losing federal funding.

Legislative Status:
Referred to the House Judiciary Committee—awaiting a vote.

SALDEF Action:
We proudly endorsed IRPHA and were named among leading civil rights advocates during its formal reintroduction.

Why It Matters:
FBI data shows Sikh Americans are the most targeted religious group in hate crimes per capita. Yet local law enforcement often underreports or fails to report these incidents. This bill ensures better data and more resources to protect our community.

Call to Action:
If you or someone you know has experienced a hate crime or bias incident, you’re not alone. Our team is here to support you.

➡️ Read our guide: A Guide to Responding to and Reporting Hate Crimes and Bias Incidents Against Asian American and Pacific Islander Communities

State Level Wins for Our Sangat

VA HB 2594: Securing Gurdwaras and Places of Worship

  • Summary: Requires Virginia to train law enforcement and private security on the unique needs of religious spaces, including gurdwaras.
  • Status: Signed into law on April 2, 2025.
  • SALDEF Action: Led coordinated civil rights endorsements to support JJ Singh’s house of worship security bill in VA.
  • Impact: Enhances cultural sensitivity and ensures gurdwaras are protected by informed law enforcement.

CA SB 509: Combating Transnational Repression (TNR)

  • Summary: Requires TNR recognition and response training for CA law enforcement.
  • Status: Passed Senate committees; pending vote in Appropriations.
  • SALDEF Action: Direct advocacy to CA state senators and coalition-building across civil rights groups.
  • Impact: Protects Sikh Americans and other diaspora communities from foreign surveillance and intimidation.

➡️ Call to Action: California residents—email your State Senator today using our quick form: www.saldef.org/takeaction

California Department of Corrections: Religious Headwear Policy Win

  • Summary: New policy allows religious headwear like dastaars to be worn during prison visits, with clear and respectful screening procedures.
  • Status: Memo issued April 22, 2025. Training for staff mandated within 90 days.
  • SALDEF Action: SALDEF led successful advocacy urging the California Department of Corrections to revise its visitor policy—now explicitly protecting the right to wear religious headwear, like the Sikh dastaar. Under the new policy, headwear can only be inspected after a failed screening and must be done privately and respectfully.
  • Impact: Ends confusion and discrimination against visitors with religious clothing—especially Sikh visitors wearing dastaars.
LOOKING AHEAD: HELP POWER OUR 2025 ADVOCACY

With your partnership, SALDEF will continue advancing bold, community-driven policy work in 2025. Here’s where we’re headed—and where your support is needed most:

  • Tracking and preventing hate crimes with stronger data, systems, and community response
  • Combating transnational repression and caste discrimination that threaten civil liberties
  • Defending humane immigration policies that keep families together
  • Holding social media platforms accountable as deregulation fuels hate speech
  • Strengthening our democracy through civic education and Sikh American empowerment

These fights are urgent. Your support ensures we have the resources to lead them. Donate today to keep this work moving forward.

Thank you for standing with us. Your commitment allows SALDEF to fight for policies that safeguard our rights and tell the truth about our community’s experiences.

Support SALDEF
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 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.”