Defending Dignity for Detainees
When Jot Singh left his college campus, he never imagined a quick trip to the grocery store would end in an ICE detention cell. For hours, he was held without food or water and only told, “We don’t have anything, so don’t bother asking.” He had a valid international student visa. He knew his rights. But at that moment, none of it mattered.
And Jot’s story is not alone. Across America, Sikh men and women are being detained in conditions that strip them of dignity, food, and even their turbans — the very articles of faith that define their identity. Many are held for hours without explanation, denied vegetarian meals, and often left without legal support.
Our sangat has always stood for basic human dignity and respect. When one of us is denied dignity, we all feel it.
This Dasvandh Week, your gift can ensure that no Sikh in detention is left without support, without their religious rights, and without hope.
The Crisis We’re Fighting
No Basic Necessities: Sikhs detained without water, food, or humane treatment
Faith Denied: Turbans and articles of faith forcibly removed
No Religious Accommodation: Denial of vegetarian meals and prayer access
How SALDEF Is Taking Action
For nearly three decades, SALDEF has worked to protect the rights and dignity of Sikhs nationwide. Through community advocacy and education, we ensure that Sikh identity is respected everywhere - including behind bars. Your support enable us to:
- Advocate to ensure Sikh detainees’ constitutional rights are upheld
- Provide legal referrals to ensure detainees get appropriate legal support
- Direct intervention with ICE and detention centers to secure religious accommodations
- Deliver “Know Your Rights” workshops at gurdwaras and community centers
- Document rights violations to drive policy reform and systemic change
Why Your Gift Matters Now
Detentions are quietly continuing across the country. We simply cannot wait for the next Sikh to face this alone.
Donate now and your gift will be matched 1:1, doubling your impact. Help ensure that what happened to Jot Singh never happens again. Together, we can reach our $15,000 goal — and it’s entirely within reach.
Join the Movement — Give, Share, and Sustain
Your Dasvandh is more than charity — it’s a stand for justice and identity. When you give today, you:
- Defend the dignity of Sikhs in detention
- Strengthen our community’s voice nationwide
- Multiply your impact through a 1:1 match
- Help create lasting change beyond this week
Consider making your gift recurring to sustain this work year-round. And invited others from your network and sangat to join you — because when we stand together, no Sikh stands alone.