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

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

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Contact: media@saldef.org

SALDEF Responds to 2024 FBI Hate Crimes Data Release

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released their national report on hate crimes, indicating 143 anti-Sikh hate crimes documented in calendar year 2024. We continue to see Sikhs as one of the top three most targeted religious groups in the country, behind the Jewish and Muslim communities. 

Unfortunately, we know that these numbers do not account for the true scope of hate around the country. Law enforcement agencies continue to under-report, or sometimes fail to report the number of hate crimes in their region. Since agencies often fail to report to the FBI,  many victims develop a lack of trust in law enforcement, which causes individuals to often not report their hate crimes, perpetuating a cycle of underreporting. 

“Anti-Sikh hate remains prevalent, although this is not always reflected most accurately in the data,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, Executive Director of SALDEF. “SALDEF continues to push for data collection approaches that ensure that our community is heard, supported, and empowered to come forward.” 

We continue to push Congress, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies to combat hate and provide our community with resources. SALDEF urges Congress to pass the Improving Reporting to Prevent Hate Act (IRPHA). Passage of the IRPHA will support localities in reporting credible and accurate data, which is critical for our community to access.

If you are a victim of an act of hate or bias, we encourage you to share your experience with SALDEF. You can find more resources on how to respond to acts of hate here. 

Report an Incident View SALDEF’s Free Resources

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