California Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren has co-sponsored the Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act of 2025, aiming to combat discrimination against Sikh Americans.
California Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren has officially joined as a co-sponsor of the Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act of 2025, according to a recent press release.
The bill, introduced on January 15, 2025, by New Jersey Congressman Josh Gottheimer, seeks to establish a Task Force on Anti-Sikh Discrimination within the U.S. Department of Justice. This initiative aims to address the growing concerns surrounding anti-Sikh discrimination and hate crimes.
The proposed task force would be responsible for creating a formal federal definition of anti-Sikh hate, developing educational programs on anti-Sikh discrimination for schools and law enforcement agencies, and issuing an annual report on hate crime statistics. Additionally, the task force would engage directly with Sikh communities and advocacy groups to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met.
“No religious community should ever feel afraid to worship in America,” Rep. Lofgren stated. “Sikh Americans have faced increased discrimination and hate crimes, and it’s necessary for the Department of Justice to elevate its attention to this issue. I’m proud to represent a large Sikh community in San Jose, and I will do everything in my power to ensure the federal government combats anti-Sikh discrimination.”
Congressman Gottheimer emphasized the importance of the legislation, stating that it was inspired by conversations with Sikh families and community leaders in New Jersey. “The bipartisan Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act will turn those conversations into action—strengthening how our federal government defines, tracks, and prevents anti-Sikh hate crimes so that every American can practice their faith freely and safely,” he said.
Rep. Lofgren serves as the vice chair of the American Sikh Congressional Caucus and represents a significant Sikh community in San Jose, which is home to one of the largest Sikh worship houses outside of India. The bill, designated as H.R. 7100, has garnered support from numerous national Sikh organizations and is co-sponsored by 12 other U.S. representatives.
This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the challenges faced by Sikh Americans and the need for comprehensive measures to protect their rights and ensure their safety in the United States.
According to IndicaNews, the Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act is a crucial step toward addressing the rising tide of discrimination and hate crimes against Sikh individuals and communities across the nation.