Earlier this month, SALDEF Executive Director Baldev Singh, participated in a round table discussion hosted by the Senate Democratic Steering Outreach Committee, along with other civil rights, policy and faith leaders from across the country to discuss the potential impact of the Trump Administration’s proposed budget for 2018-19. Among the issues that were discussed included civil rights, Medicaid cuts, tax reform, and immigration policy.
They discussed several key issues affecting the Sikh American community: hate crimes, workplace discrimination, and conducting cultural and religious training for federal and local law enforcement officials.
“This meeting was an incredibly important opportunity to connect with Senators and other civic, policy and faith leaders, to discuss the important policy issues of the day,” said Singh. “We were able to openly discuss how our communities may be affected by the proposed budget actions and ensure our voices are raised in advocacy of keeping our communities safe, and issues of importance to them are raised.”
Senators in attendance included: Charles Schumer (NY), Dick Durbin (IL), Richard Blumenthal (CT), Amy Klobuchar (MN), Chris Coons (DE), Tom Carper (DE), Jeanne Shaheen (NH), Tim Kaine (VA), Jeff Merkley (OR), Mazie Hirono (HI).
SALDEF (Sikh American Legal Defense & Education Fund) is a national Sikh American education, policy, and media organization, committed to engaging with elected officials at all levels, particularly during this time of political and social uncertainty.
