SALDEF Previews New NBC Show 'Outsourced'
On August 16, SALDEF met with NBC executives to preview the pilot episode of the network's new comedy 'Outsourced'. The show, which features a Sikh American as a cast member, is about a manager in the United States whose call center has been outsourced and follows him as he moves to India to manage the operation.
After the showing, SALDEF commended NBC for promoting diversity through its programming but also cautioned the network to remain sensitive to the Sikh American community's perception of the character and the show. The show will being airing this fall.
Other updates from SALDEV
SALDEF National Gala - October 16 in Washington DC
SALDEF National GalaJoin us for an evening of celebration, culture and achievement in the Nation's Capital on October 16. We will recognize individuals who have contributed to the advancement and protection of religious liberty and civil rights in this country. The event will feature cultural performances and live entertainment. More information coming soon to saldef.org
Department of Homeland Security Roundtable in Los Angeles
DHS LogoLast month, SALDEF participated in an annual Roundtable hosted by the Department of Homeland Security in Los Angeles, CA. The event included an introduction to the Officer for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, Margo Schlanger, as well as presentations from Arif Alikhan, DHS Assistant Secretary for Policy Development and Michael Downing, Deputy Chief, Los Angeles Police Department. Other agencies which were represented included the FBI, TSA, U.S. Attorney's Office-Civil Rights Division, LA County Sheriffs, and ICE.
Topics of discussion included partnership with Law Enforcement, community policing initiatives, and cultural competency trainings with other community and agency representatives. SALDEF raised the issue of increased racial profiling under new community policing and anti-terrorism projects programs such as I-Watch and Counter Violent Extremism (CVE). SALDEF will continue to work with DHS to ensure that community concerns are closely monitored.
FBI Training on Sikh Americans
On July 29, SALDEF provided cultural sensitivity training to approximately 50 FBI agents and staff members at the FBI's Washington Field Office. Participants watched On Common Ground, a training video produced by SALDEF in collaboration with the Department of Justice, and received a presentation about the Sikh articles of faith, religious practices, and appropriate protocol when interacting with Sikh Americans. The presentation was well received and SALDEF has been requested to hold a similar presentation in the near future.
Connecting with Sikh American Youth at Sikh Camps Across the Country
This summer, SALDEF presented Anti-Bullying and 'Getting Involved' workshops at three Sikh Youth Camps across the country. At Guru Harkrishan Institute of Sikh Studies Camp in Maryland, 50 children learned how to more effectively handle situations when they feel bullied at school. At Guru Gobind Singh Foundation Camp, also in Maryland, approximately 80 campers learned how to more effectively communicate about their faith and identity to non-Sikhs. At Camp Gian near Los Angeles, SALDEF discussed how young Sikhs can be involved in the community and develop leadership skills for the future. Through these workshops, presentations and group discussions SALDEF seeks to provide support and guidance for Sikh American youth. If we can support your child or local school, please contact us.
Lobbying for Religious Freedom in the Workplace -- WRFA
Over the past month, SALDEF has continued to engage with the offices of several members of Congress to support the Workplace Religious Freedom Act (WRFA). If passed, WRFA will positively impact the Sikh American community by strengthening the laws which allow for religious expression in the workplace. To read about past engagement with this bill please click below:
* Religious Freedom Bill Discussed in Congress
* SALDEF Conducts Congressional Visits on Religious Freedoms Legislation
* SALDEF Conducts Congressional Briefing on WRFA
* The Sikh American Voice in Congress
Apply to be a Fall Intern
The SALDEF Internship Program offers Sikh American youth rare SALDEF Teamopportunities for political advocacy and leadership development. The program educates students on issues of civil rights, public policy, and the legislative process. Students will gain practical experience in community organizing, research and writing, legal issues, political action, and educational outreach. SALDEF is seeking interns to assist in the following areas: Legislation, Communication, Development and Technology/Media.
The deadline to apply for the Fall is September 16.
For more information, click here.
