:dateline:Sikh Americans in California commend Governor Jerry Brown, who recently signed a historic bill to counter school bullying. The Safe Place to Learn Act will now protect Sikh, Muslim, and other students when they are harassed in schools.
The legislation (AB 2845) will require the California Department of Education to assess whether schools adequately provide information to educators and community members regarding students who are subject to discrimination and bullying based on actual or perceived religious affiliation.
�When we reached out to Sikh Americans in California to contact their elected officials, they responded,� said SALDEF Executive Director Deepinder Singh. �We�ll use the momentum from this legislative victory to continue expanding our work so every student can achieve their full potential without fear of harassment.�
AB 2845 was introduced by Assembly member Das Williams. SALDEF advocated for its passage as part of a diverse coalition that includes Asian Americans Advancing Justice – California, Council on American-Islamic Relations, California Chapter, and the Sikh Coalition.
The bill also requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction to post anti-bullying resources related to affiliation or perceived affiliation with any religion, nationality, race, or ethnicity on its website.
If you have any questions about bullying and harassment in schools, please email [email protected] or call national office at 202-393-2700.
