The Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act is need of the hour : NAPA
Chandigarh/America 26 January ( Ranjeet Singh Dhaliwal ) : The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal, strongly welcomes the introduction of the bipartisan Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act (HR 7100), calling it a long-overdue and critical step to address the alarming rise in hate crimes and discrimination targeting Sikh Americans across the United States.
Recent data and advocacy reports have consistently shown that Sikhs are now the third most-targeted religious group in the United States, a deeply troubling reality that underscores the urgent need for federal action. NAPA believes this legislation comes at a decisive moment, when fear, misinformation, and hate-based violence have increasingly impacted Sikh families, gurdwaras, and visibly identifiable community members.
“The Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act is not just timely — it is the need of the hour,” said Satnam Singh Chahal, Executive Director of NAPA. “For far too long, Sikh Americans have faced targeted violence, workplace discrimination, school bullying, and racial profiling because of their articles of faith. This bill sends a clear message that the federal government recognizes this reality and is prepared to act.”
The legislation, introduced by Congressman Josh Gottheimer (Democrat-NJ) and co-led by Congressman David Valadao (Republcian-CA), seeks to direct the U.S. Department of Justice to establish a DOJ Task Force on Anti-Sikh Hate and Discrimination. The task force would work to formally define anti-Sikh hate, improve data collection, strengthen prevention strategies, and ensure accountability through annual reporting to Congress.
NAPA also applauds Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (Democract-CA) for joining the bill as a co-sponsor and for her unequivocal statement that “no religious community should ever feel afraid to worship in America.” Her leadership reflects the growing bipartisan understanding that protecting Sikh Americans is fundamental to upholding American values of religious freedom and civil rights.
“The creation of a dedicated Depatment of Justice (DOJ) task force will elevate anti-Sikh hate from being an overlooked issue to a national priority,” Chahal added. “Education programs for law enforcement, schools, and higher education institutions are especially vital. Misidentification and ignorance have been at the root of many attacks against Sikhs, and education is one of the most powerful tools to prevent future violence.”
The bill also mandates direct engagement with Sikh community organizations and advocacy groups, ensuring that policy decisions are informed by lived experiences. NAPA views this collaborative approach as essential for building trust between Sikh Americans and federal institutions.
“The bipartisan nature of this bill is its greatest strength,” said Chahal. “Hate crimes are not a partisan issue. Protecting the safety and dignity of Sikh Americans — and all faith communities — is a shared American responsibility.”
NAPA urges all members of Congress to support the Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act and reaffirm the nation’s commitment to religious freedom, equality, and justice. The organization remains committed to working with lawmakers, civil rights groups, and community leaders to ensure that Sikh Americans can live,

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