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About us

Welcome to
SALDEF

We envision a United States where Sikh Americans are respected and recognized as an integral part of this nation. We are grounded in our values of optimism (chardi kala), humility (nimrata) and service (seva), inspired by the community (sangat) for the benefit of all (sarbat da bhalla).

About us
Our programs

Our SikhLEAD Programs & Internships

SikhLEAD nurtures, develops, and trains the next generation of Sikh American leaders. Through internships, skills training, and leadership training, the program offers young Sikh Americans the knowledge they need to build stronger communities across the United States.

Programs overview
Washington DC Internship

The SikhLEAD Washington DC Internship Program partners with congressional offices, federal agencies, and Washington, DC-based organizations to provide Sikh American students with enriching internship experiences.
Leadership Development Program

Since its founding in 2010, the Leadership Development Program (LDP) inspires, trains, and supports young Sikh leaders as they prepare for a lifetime of community engagement and leadership.
Regional Internship

The SikhLEAD Regional Internship Program molds young leaders and offers unique opportunities for young Sikh Americans to enter into their local and state government.
Innovation Fellows Program

The Innovation Fellows program empowers the next generation of aspiring Sikh entrepreneurs through the exposure and evaluation of breakthrough technologies emerging out of federal laboratories and academic research centers over the summer.

Our Advocacy &
Research

Leveraging our location in the Nation’s Capital, we use our relationships with government and national partners to create positive change in our country. We maximize Sikh American advocacy power with national and state-level surveys, research reports, and collaboration with policymakers.

View Our Research
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Education & Resources

Discover the rich history of the world’s fifth-largest religion, Sikhism, through educational resources to spread awareness of our faith and practices. We have additional information to help you build relationships with your community and advocate for yourself on common problems.

find all resources here
Report an Incident or Hate Crime

Are you victim of a hate crime and looking for legal support?

report an incident
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Volunteer with Us

As the concept of Seva teaches us, your time and talent can make a considerable impact and difference. Join us today and help us tackle the big issues facing our community.

to volunteer page
Partner with Us

SALDEF is highly vested in developing a comprehensive network of partners to increase our impact through strategic partnerships. We welcome the opportunity to hear about your organization and how we can work together.

to partner page

Our Newsroom

Stay up to date with the latest news, resources and information. For media inquiries, please contact media@saldef.org

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News
Posted: June 16, 2026
SALDEF Calls for Accuracy, Compassion, and Responsibility Following Southampton Tragedy
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News
Posted: April 2, 2026
From the Frontlines: March Advocacy Update
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News
Posted: March 23, 2026
SALDEF Mourns the Loss of Dr. Inder Mohan Singh
all news & events

Help us Make a Difference

As the nation’s oldest Sikh American civil rights group, SALDEF has been a voice for Sikh Americans on issues that affect the lives of all Americans. Based in Washington DC, we leverage our political network to represent Sikh Americans on issues such as voting rights, religious freedom and more. We couldn’t do this without generous supporters like you.

Donate today
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