Building on SALDEF advocacy, the release is an acknowledgement of community concerns
WASHINGTON D.C. (TIP) : The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) welcomes the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for releasing a public service announcement (PSA) in Punjabi, addressing transnational repression.
“By releasing this announcement in Punjabi, the FBI is validating the ongoing and very real threat of transnational repression against Sikhs in America, ” said SALDEF Acting Executive Director, Kavneet Singh. “This release builds on months of discussions with the Administration on how to effectively ensure the safety of the community in light of deep concerns shared with us by the sangat and other minority communities. Issuing it in Punjabi means that this information will reach the most members of our community as possible. This public service announcement underscores how seriously the government is taking our concerns around the safety, security, and sovereignty of America and its residents.”
The PSA highlights various forms of transnational repression such as surveillance, stalking, harassment, and cyberattacks. It underscores the FBI’s commitment to protecting individuals in the United States from foreign threats and ensures that reports of repression are taken seriously, without the fear of information being shared with foreign governments.
This critical development is a direct result of SALDEF’s continuous advocacy and engagement with the FBI, Congress, and the Administration to protect the rights and freedoms of the Sikh American community.
With detailed research reports in the past and a forthcoming report on transnational repression, SALDEF continues to lead the charge engaging with national leaders regarding the safety and advancement of Sikh American civil rights. SALDEF urges community members and the press to listen to and share the PSA, and to report any instances of transnational repression. The PSA is a crucial tool in our collective efforts to combat intimidation and threats from foreign entities.